colour INS 161b

Lutein E161b

natural — Primarily plant-derived.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Lutein (xanthophyll)

CAS: 127-40-2

Data verified: 2026-04-04

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 Lutein?

Lutein (E161b) is a yellow carotenoid pigment found naturally in green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, and parsley, as well as in egg yolks and marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta), which are the primary commercial source for food-grade lutein. It is extracted from marigold petals using organic solvents and is used as a natural yellow food colorant in confectionery, pasta, soups, beverages, and ice cream. In addition to its use as a colorant, lutein is widely recognized for its role in eye health, particularly in reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration. EFSA re-evaluated lutein in 2010 and established an ADI of 1 mg/kg body weight per day; lutein is approved in the EU and has GRAS status in the USA.

? Did You Know?

Lutein occurs naturally in marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta) and kale. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Lutein is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

In the EU, Lutein 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)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Widely permitted in various food categories

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved Exempt from certification

Also approved as a dietary supplement ingredient

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Approved as marigold pigment (natural source)

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

0–2 mg/kg bw/day (group ADI for lutein from Tagetes erecta and zeaxanthin)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

1 mg/kg bw/day (for lutein from Tagetes erecta)

Natural Occurrence

Yellow-orange xanthophyll carotenoid naturally occurring in many plants, particularly abundant in marigold flower petals. Lutein is one of the two primary carotenoids found in the human retina.

marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta)kalespinachegg yolkscornorange pepperskiwi fruitgrapes

Manufacturing

Method: extraction

Commercially extracted from the petals of Mexican marigold (Tagetes erecta) flowers using solvent extraction. The extract contains at least 80% carotenoids, primarily lutein (approximately 79%) and zeaxanthin (approximately 5%). Marigold flowers are specially cultivated for lutein production.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used as a colorant and antioxidant in cosmetics.

Medical

Widely used in eye health supplements and multivitamins.

Industrial

Used in animal feed, particularly poultry feed to enhance egg yolk color.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lutein (E161b)?

Lutein (E161b) is a colour used in food products. It is natural and plant-derived. Yellow-orange xanthophyll carotenoid naturally occurring in many plants, particularly abundant in marigold flower petals. Lutein is one of the two primary carotenoids found in the human retina.

Where is Lutein found naturally?

Lutein is naturally found in marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta), kale, spinach, egg yolks, corn, orange peppers, kiwi fruit, grapes. Yellow-orange xanthophyll carotenoid naturally occurring in many plants, particularly abundant in marigold flower petals. Lutein is one of the two primary carotenoids found in the human retina.

What is the ADI for Lutein?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Lutein is 0–2 mg/kg bw/day (group ADI for lutein from Tagetes erecta and zeaxanthin) 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 Lutein?

Lutein is used in various food categories including Flavoured fermented milk products, Fat emulsions mainly of type water-in-oil. It is used as a colour in these products.

Is Lutein the same as Xanthophyll?

Yes, Lutein is also known as Xanthophyll, Marigold extract, CI 75135, Vegetable lutein. These are different names for the same substance.