Is Lycopene Safe?
Lycopene is the additive E160d — extracted from tomatoes or produced by fermentation, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
Is Lycopene safe to eat?
E160d 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 E160d.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Lycopene?
E160d is the E-number for lycopene, 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 tomatoes or produced by fermentation. Like every E-number, E160d 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 E160d in detail below.
What foods contain Lycopene?
E160d (Lycopene) is typically found in:
- Sweets
- Soft drinks
- Desserts
- Ice cream
- Sauces and snacks
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lycopene bad for you?
Yes. E160d is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Lycopene vegan?
E160d is vegan. Extracted from tomatoes or produced by fermentation, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Lycopene halal?
E160d is halal. Extracted from tomatoes or produced by fermentation, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E160d (Lycopene) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).