Beetroot Red E162
natural — Primarily plant-derived.
Betanin
CAS: 7659-95-2
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 Beetroot Red?
Beetroot Red (E162), also known as betanin, is a natural red colorant extracted from the root of the red beet (Beta vulgaris), belonging to the betalain family of pigments. The characteristic purple-red color comes from betacyanins (primarily betanin and isobetanin), and beetroot red also contains yellow betaxanthins. It is extracted from beet juice or beet pulp using water or mild solvents. Beetroot red is used as a colorant in confectionery, ice cream, certain sauces, soups, and dairy products. A notable limitation is its sensitivity to heat, light, and pH — it fades under cooking conditions and shifts from red toward yellow in alkaline environments. EFSA evaluated beetroot red and set an ADI of not specified, considering it acceptable without a numerical limit given its natural origin and metabolic pathway.
? Did You Know?
Beetroot Red occurs naturally in Red beets (Beta vulgaris) and Swiss chard. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Beetroot Red is also used in cosmetics, medicine. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
In the EU, Beetroot Red 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)
Widely permitted
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)
Natural Occurrence
A natural red-violet pigment extracted from beetroot, belonging to the betalain family of pigments.
Manufacturing
Extracted from red beet roots using water or aqueous ethanol, followed by concentration and standardization.
Applications Beyond Food
Used in natural cosmetics as a colorant.
Used as a natural colorant in some pharmaceutical preparations.