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lutein from Tagetes erecta ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namelutein from Tagetes erecta
English namelutein from Tagetes erecta
INS/E numberINS 161b(i)
Functional classColour
Year adopted1995
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Lutein from Tagetes erecta is a natural yellow carotenoid (xanthophyll) extracted and purified from marigold petals, with antioxidant and eye-health activity. As a colourant it provides a yellow to orange-yellow hue.

Source ​

Natural:万寿菊(Tagetes erecta)花瓣

Why is it used? ​

  • Provides a natural yellow to orange-yellow colour
  • Offers antioxidant and eye-health fortification
  • Used to colour egg products, beverages and dairy
  • Meets clean-label demands
  • Restores colour lost during processing and storage

Common Foods ​

  • Egg products
  • Beverages
  • Dairy and yoghurt
  • Bakery products
  • Dietary supplements

Safety ​

Concerns:

  • 作为高剂量补充剂的研究有限

Usage Standard ​

China:GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》(叶黄素, INS 161b)

International:

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 161b)
  • FDA 21 CFR 73.295 (Tagetes (Aztec marigold) meal and extract)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 161b)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (161b)

In a nutshell ​

Lutein from Tagetes erecta is a natural yellow colour with eye-health benefits, safe within recommended limits.

Consumer Advice ​

This is natural lutein extracted from the petals of marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta), a purely plant-based source used to add yellow color to foods and in eye-health products. It contains no animal ingredients and suits vegan, halal and kosher diets. People with severe allergies to the daisy family (such as chrysanthemums) may wish to consult a doctor, but it is not a common allergen for most consumers.

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.