Is Beetroot Red Safe?
Beetroot Red is the additive E162 — extracted from beetroot, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
Is Beetroot Red safe to eat?
E162 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E162.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Beetroot Red?
E162 is the E-number for beetroot red, one of the food colourings group of food additives (E100–E199). Additives in this group add or restore colour to foods and drinks. Extracted from beetroot. Like every E-number, E162 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E162 in detail below.
What foods contain Beetroot Red?
E162 (Beetroot Red) is typically found in:
- Sweets
- Soft drinks
- Desserts
- Ice cream
- Sauces and snacks
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beetroot Red bad for you?
Yes. E162 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Beetroot Red vegan?
E162 is vegan. Extracted from beetroot, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Beetroot Red halal?
E162 is halal. Extracted from beetroot, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E162 (Beetroot Red) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).