Food Additives Encyclopedia

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zeaxanthins ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namezeaxanthins
English namezeaxanthins
INS/E numberINS 161h
Functional classColour
Year adopted2000
Approved byTo be added.

What is it? ​

Zeaxanthin is a natural yellow carotenoid (xanthophyll) closely related to lutein, widely present in maize and egg yolk, with antioxidant and eye-health activity. As a colourant it provides a yellow to orange-yellow hue.

Source ​

Natural：玉米、万寿菊等含玉米黄质植物或发酵来源

Why is it used? ​

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

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》(玉米黄质, INS 161h)

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 161h)
  • FDA 21 CFR 73.295 (related Tagetes extracts)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 161h)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (161h)

In a nutshell ​

Zeaxanthin is a natural yellow carotenoid with eye-health benefits, safe within recommended limits.

Consumer Advice ​

Zeaxanthin is a yellow carotenoid found naturally in corn, leafy greens and egg yolks, and together with lutein it forms the macular pigment of the eye. It is used in food colorants and eye-health supplements. It is very safe, whether naturally extracted or synthetic, contains no animal ingredients, suits vegan, halal and kosher diets, and is not a common allergen.

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.