E160a: Carotene

What is E160a?

Carotenes (E160a) are orange-yellow pigments from the carotenoid family, the best known being beta-carotene, which the body can convert to vitamin A. They are fat-soluble and give carrots and many other fruits and vegetables their colour.

Origin and production

E160a can be synthetic beta-carotene, or carotenes extracted from plants such as carrots and palm oil, from algae (Dunaliella salina) or from the fungus Blakeslea trispora.

Why is it used?

Carotenes give a yellow to orange colour to margarine, butter-style spreads, cakes, pastries, soft drinks, desserts and sweets. They may also be added to foods partly as a source of vitamin A.

Vegan, vegetarian and halal

The pigment itself is not of animal origin, but carotene preparations are sometimes encapsulated in gelatine to make them water-dispersible, and some are derived from palm oil. Vegans, vegetarians and those avoiding palm oil should check with the manufacturer or look for certification.

Safety and regulation

Mixed and beta-carotenes are authorised as food colours in the EU and were re-evaluated by EFSA. They are permitted in many food categories, with specifications for each production method.

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