carotenes
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | 类胡萝卜素(deepl翻译) |
| English name | carotenes |
| INS/E number | INS 160a |
| Functional class | Colour |
| Year adopted | To be added. |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
carotenes (INS 160a) is a Colour food additive. Used to impart or restore colour in foods, improving appearance and acceptability.
Source
Natural：Some are natural pigments from plant, mineral or animal sources (e.g. curcumin, beet red, caramel).
Industrial：Many synthetic colours are produced by organic synthesis and supplied as lakes for stability.
Why is it used?
- Improve or standardize food colour
- Compensate for colour loss during processing
- Enhance consumer acceptability
Common Foods
- Beverages
- Confectionery
- Bakery
- Sauces
- Processed meat
Safety
Evaluated by JECFA and national authorities; generally safe within maximum permitted levels, though some synthetic colours are restricted or require labelling in certain regions.
Metabolism：Metabolic pathways vary by substance; generally the material is metabolised or excreted normally.
Concerns：
- Use within permitted levels
- Sensitive individuals should check the ingredient list
Usage Standard
China：依据 GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》确定使用范围与最大使用量；具体限值随食品类别而异。
International：
- China GB 2760 National Food Safety Standard for Uses of Food Additives：https://www.cfsa.net.cn/
- Codex GSFA General Standard for Food Additives：https://www.fao.org/food-safety/codex-alimentarius/en/
- FAO/WHO JECFA (Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives)：https://www.fao.org/food-safety/scientific-advice/jecfa/en/
- US FDA Substances Added to Food：https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/substances-added-food-previously-food-additive-status-list
- EU EFSA Food Additives：https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/food-additives
In a nutshell
carotenes is a Colour, safe for use in food production within permitted limits.
Disclaimer
The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.