beta-carotene, synthetic

Basic Information

Field	Content
Chinese name	beta-carotene, synthetic
English name	beta-carotene, synthetic
INS/E number	INS 160a(i)
Functional class	Colour
Year adopted	1966
Approved by	Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it?

Beta-carotene, synthetic (INS 160a(i)), is chemically synthesized and purified beta-carotene used as an orange-red colour and vitamin A precursor; the (i) form of INS 160a.

Source

Industrial：化学合成（缩合、环化）后纯化结晶

Why is it used?

• Provides orange-red colour
• Fortifies vitamin A
• Used in margarine, beverages and supplements

Common Foods

• Margarine
• Beverages
• Dietary supplements
• Dairy products
• Confectionery

Safety

在规定用量内总体安全；过量致皮肤暂时性黄染（无害）。

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-5 mg/kg bw

Concerns：

• 过量致皮肤黄染（无害）

Usage Standard

China：GB 2760（β-胡萝卜素，合成）

International：

• EU 1333/2008 Annex II (E 160a(i))
• FDA 21 CFR 73.95
• Codex GSFA (INS 160a(i))
• FSANZ (160a)

In a nutshell

Synthetic beta-carotene (form i) is an orange-red colour and vitamin A precursor.

Consumer Advice

Synthetic beta-carotene is a carotenoid produced by chemical synthesis, identical in structure to natural beta-carotene. It is used as a yellow-to-orange colorant and vitamin A precursor fortifier in drinks, candy, margarine, and baked goods. It is safe within approved limits; however, high-dose beta-carotene supplements were associated with increased lung cancer risk in smokers, so it is best to obtain it from food rather than large supplements.

Dietary Restrictions

• Vegan: ✅
• Halal: ✅
• Kosher: ✅

Allergens

✅ Free from common allergens

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.