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sandalwood ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namesandalwood
English namesandalwood
INS/E numberINS 166
Functional classColour
Year adoptedTo be added.
Approved byTo be added.

What is it? ​

Sandalwood colour (mainly from the heartwood of red sandalwood, Pterocarpus santalinus) is a natural red-violet plant pigment containing santalin-type compounds, used as a food colour in some Asian countries.

Source ​

Natural:红檀香(Pterocarpus santalinus)心材

Why is it used? ​

  • Provides a natural red-violet colour
  • Suitable for traditional foods and clean-label
  • Used in confectionery, alcoholic drinks and rice products
  • Stable in mildly acidic to neutral systems
  • Restores processing colour loss

Common Foods ​

  • Confectionery
  • Rice products
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Bakery products
  • Beverages

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake):Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)

Concerns:

  • 原料来源与掺杂需控制
  • 需控制重金属与溶剂残留

Usage Standard ​

China:GB 2760(按植物提取物色素管理)

International:

  • EU 未统一列入 Annex II,依各成员批准
  • 一般作为天然提取物依色素法规使用
  • Codex GSFA (INS 166)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (Sandalwood)
  • 日本、东南亚等允许使用

In a nutshell ​

Sandalwood colour is a natural red-violet pigment from red sandalwood heartwood, safe with a traditional edible background.

Consumer Advice ​

Sandalwood yellow is a natural yellow colouring derived from sandalwood and similar woods. Although it was historically used as a food colour in some countries, it is not approved in current food additive standards in China, the European Union or the United States, so consumers are very unlikely to encounter it in legitimate foods.

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.