Beta-apo-8'-carotenal ethyl ester E160F
carotenoid — Primarily synthetic.
Ethyl 8'-apo-β-caroten-8'-oate
CAS: 1109-11-1
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 Beta-apo-8'-carotenal ethyl ester?
Beta-apo-8'-carotenal ethyl ester (E160f) is a synthetic ester of beta-apo-8'-carotenal, producing an orange-yellow to orange-red color used as a food colorant in beverages, confectionery, margarine, and dairy products. Like E160e, it is structurally related to beta-carotene and functions as a fat-soluble coloring agent that provides stable warm orange tones in foods where water-insoluble colorants are preferred. JECFA has evaluated this colorant and established an ADI of 0-5 mg/kg body weight per day. It is approved in the EU under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 and recognized in other jurisdictions. The FDA permits the ethyl ester form as an exempt color additive in the United States.
? Did You Know?
In the EU, Beta-apo-8'-carotenal ethyl ester has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Permitted in specific categories
United States (FDA)
Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Everyday Perspective
For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:
Natural Occurrence
This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.
Manufacturing
Industrially produced.