Carotenes E160a
natural — Primarily plant-derived.
Beta-carotene and mixed carotenes
CAS: 7235-40-7
Factual Regulatory Reference
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 is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
What Is Carotenes?
Carotenes (E160a) are a group of orange-red carotenoid pigments, primarily alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and gamma-carotene, found abundantly in carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, spinach, and many other fruits and vegetables, where they serve as precursors to vitamin A. For food use, carotenes are commercially produced through chemical synthesis of beta-carotene or by extraction from natural sources such as carrots, palm oil, and algae (Dunaliella salina). They are used as yellow-orange food colorants in margarines, cheese, butter, beverages, soups, and confectionery, and also function as provitamin A sources when added to foods. EFSA re-evaluated beta-carotene in 2012 and established an ADI of 5 mg/kg body weight per day; carotenes are approved in the EU, USA, Japan, Canada, and Australia/NZ as both colorants and nutrient supplements.
? Did You Know?
Carotenes occurs naturally in carrots and sweet potatoes. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Carotenes is produced through fermentation — the same biological process used to make bread, beer, and yogurt.
Beyond food, Carotenes is also used in cosmetics, medicine. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Widely permitted
United States (FDA)
Also approved as a nutrient supplement
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
Orange-yellow pigments naturally found in many fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A.
Manufacturing
Can be extracted from natural sources like carrots or palm oil, or produced by chemical synthesis, or through fermentation using algae or fungi.
Applications Beyond Food
Used as a colorant and antioxidant in cosmetics.
Used as a vitamin A supplement and colorant.