Disclaimer: This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and may change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
Carotenes
E160a | INS 160a
Names & Identifiers
- E Number
- E160a
- INS Number
- 160a
- CAS Number
- 7235-40-7
- Scientific Name
- Beta-carotene and mixed carotenes
- Japanese Name
- カロテン
- Also Known As
- Beta-carotene, Provitamin A, Mixed carotenes
Regulation Status by Country
European Union
Status: approved | Max level: quantum satis mg/kg
Widely permitted
United States
Status: approved | GRAS, Exempt from certification
Also approved as a nutrient supplement
Japan
Status: approved | Category: 既存添加物
Australia / New Zealand
Status: approved | Code: 160a
Canada
Status: approved
What is Carotenes?
Classification
Function: colour
Type: natural
Source: plant-derived
Natural Occurrence
Orange-yellow pigments naturally found in many fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A.
Found in: carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, spinach, kale, apricots
How It's Made
Method: extraction or synthesis
Can be extracted from natural sources like carrots or palm oil, or produced by chemical synthesis, or through fermentation using algae or fungi.
Uses Beyond Food
- Cosmetics: Used as a colorant and antioxidant in cosmetics.
- Pharmaceutical: Used as a vitamin A supplement and colorant.
Commonly Found In
Carotenes is typically used in:
Note: This list shows typical product categories and may vary by brand and region. Always check product labels for actual ingredients.
Safety Evaluations (Official)
EFSA (EU)
ADI: 5 mg/kg bw/day
Evaluated: 2012
ADI = Acceptable Daily Intake (mg per kg of body weight per day)
Research & Official Documents
Official evaluations and scientific research:
Search research databases:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Carotenes (E160a)?
Carotenes (E160a) is a colour used in food products. It is natural and plant-derived. Orange-yellow pigments naturally found in many fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A.
Where is Carotenes found naturally?
Carotenes is naturally found in carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, spinach, kale, apricots. Orange-yellow pigments naturally found in many fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A.
What is the ADI for Carotenes?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Carotenes is 0–5 mg/kg bw/day (for beta-carotene) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.
What foods contain Carotenes?
Carotenes is used in various food categories including Dairy products, Other fat and oil emulsions. It is used as a colour in these products.
Is Carotenes the same as Beta-carotene?
Yes, Carotenes is also known as Beta-carotene, Provitamin A, Mixed carotenes. These are different names for the same substance.
Related Additives
Other colours in our database: