What is E160a? Beta-Carotene Explained
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E160a is Beta-Carotene — a colour (plant or synthetic; some animal-derived) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks.
What is E160a (Beta-Carotene)?
E160a is Beta-Carotene, a food additive classified as a colour that give food its colour. A colour (plant or synthetic; some animal-derived) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks. You'll find it in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks, cake icing and many other packaged foods. Beta-Carotene is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E160a has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Where is E160a found?
E160a (Beta-Carotene) is found in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks, cake icing, jams and preserves, ready meals, desserts.
- sweets and confectionery
- soft drinks
- cake icing
- jams and preserves
- ready meals
- desserts
Also known as: Beta Carotene
Is E160a safe?
EFSA has reviewed E160a and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Beta-Carotene to harm at normal dietary intakes.
EFSA opinion: Beta-Carotene — status Safe.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E160a. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
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E160a FAQs
What is E160a in food?
E160a is Beta-Carotene — a colour (plant or synthetic; some animal-derived) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks.
Is E160a safe to eat?
EFSA has reviewed E160a and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Beta-Carotene to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is E160a vegan?
E160a (Beta-Carotene) may or may not be vegan — it depends on the source used by the manufacturer.
Is E160a halal?
E160a (Beta-Carotene) is halal. It is derived from plant or synthetic; some animal-derived, which involves no haram sources.
Related Colours additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA