What is E160a?
E160a is Carotenes — extracted from carrots, palm fruit or algae, or produced synthetically, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
What is E160a (Carotenes)?
E160a is the E-number for carotenes, 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 carrots, palm fruit or algae, or produced synthetically. Like every E-number, E160a 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 E160a in detail below.
Where is E160a found?
E160a is typically used in sweets, soft drinks, desserts, ice cream, sauces and snacks. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E160a) or by its full name, carotenes. Common foods that may contain E160a include:
- Sweets
- Soft drinks
- Desserts
- Ice cream
- Sauces and snacks
Full guide: foods containing E160a and how to spot it on labels →
Is E160a safe?
E160a 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 E160a.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E160a vegan?
E160a is vegan. Extracted from carrots, palm fruit or algae, or produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E160a →Is E160a halal?
E160a is halal. Extracted from carrots, palm fruit or algae, or produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E160a →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E160a in food?
E160a is Carotenes — extracted from carrots, palm fruit or algae, or produced synthetically, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
Is E160a safe to eat?
Yes. E160a is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E160a vegan?
E160a is vegan. Extracted from carrots, palm fruit or algae, or produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E160a halal?
E160a is halal. Extracted from carrots, palm fruit or algae, or produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).