Food Additives Encyclopedia

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canthaxanthin ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namecanthaxanthin
English namecanthaxanthin
INS/E numberINS 161g
Functional classColour
Year adopted1986
Approved byEuropean Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Canthaxanthin is an orange-red carotenoid produced by chemical synthesis or microbial fermentation, commonly used to colour animal feed (e.g. salmon, egg yolks). As a food additive it provides an orange-red colour.

Source ​

Industrial：化学合成或微生物发酵、纯化

Why is it used? ​

  • Provides a vivid orange-red colour to foods and feed
  • Enhances the natural colour of salmon and egg yolks
  • Strong, stable tinctorial power
  • Restores processing colour loss
  • Used in beverages and confectionery

Common Foods ​

  • Poultry and eggs (feed colouring)
  • Surimi and seafood products
  • Beverages
  • Confectionery
  • Sauces

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-0.03 mg/kg bw

Concerns：

  • 高剂量可致视网膜色素沉积
  • 需控制总类胡萝卜素摄入

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》(坎塔红素, INS 161g)

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 161g)
  • FDA 21 CFR 73.75 / 73.35 (canthaxanthin in feed)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 161g)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (161g)

In a nutshell ​

Canthaxanthin is a strongly colouring orange-red carotenoid with a very low ADI requiring strict intake control.

Consumer Advice ​

Canthaxanthin is a red-orange carotenoid pigment, usually produced synthetically, used to color foods and also added to feed to give salmon its pink color. At the low levels used in food it is safe. However, prolonged high-dose intake from supplements (e.g. tanning pills) has been linked to crystal deposits in the retina that can affect vision, so avoid self-dosing at high amounts. Normal food use poses no risk. It contains no animal ingredients and suits vegan, halal and kosher diets.

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.