astaxanthin. Delisted
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | astaxanthin. Delisted |
| English name | astaxanthin. Delisted |
| INS/E number | INS 161j |
| Functional class | Colour |
| Year adopted | 1982 |
| Approved by | To be added. |
What is it?
Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring oxycarotenoid (ketocarotenoid) with a pink to orange-red colour, found in microalgae, yeast, salmon and krill; it acts both as a pigment and an antioxidant.
Source
Natural：雨生红球藻（Haematococcus pluvialis）、酵母（Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous）或化学合成
Why is it used?
- Imparts pink colour to salmon, shrimp and other aquatic foods
- Strong antioxidant activity
- Improves sensory appeal
- Used in feed to give farmed aquaculture natural body colour
- Permitted as a food colour in some jurisdictions
Common Foods
- Salmon products
- Shrimp and other seafood
- Functional beverages
- Dietary supplements
- Some confectionery and dairy products
Safety
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-0.034 mg/kg bw
Concerns：
- 高纯合成品与天然品来源不同
- 作为补充剂高剂量研究有限
Usage Standard
China：GB 2760（作为着色剂，按相应品种管理）
International：
- EU 曾以 E 161j 列名，后于 2008 年前后从 Annex II 移除；目前主要作为饲料添加剂管理
- FDA 21 CFR 73.35（用于鲑鳟饲料及特定食品着色）
- Codex 相关色素通用标准（依成员国）
- FSANZ Food Standards Code（依批准品种）
- 日本等国家和地区允许作为食品着色剂使用
In a nutshell
Astaxanthin is a natural pink ketocarotenoid used for colouring and antioxidant purposes, mainly via feed or approved food-colour routes.
Consumer Advice
Astaxanthin is a red carotenoid. Despite its name, it is not derived from shrimp — it is produced mainly by the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis or by chemical synthesis; shrimp simply appear red because they eat algae containing it. It is widely used as a dietary supplement for antioxidant and eye/joint support. It contains no shellfish proteins, so it is safe for people with shellfish allergies and for vegans. Note that it has been delisted as a food additive internationally, so it is now mainly sold as a supplement; buy from reputable brands and follow dosage guidance.
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.