What is E161b?
E161b is Lutein — extracted from marigold petals, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
What is E161b (Lutein)?
E161b is the E-number for lutein, 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 marigold petals. Like every E-number, E161b 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 E161b in detail below.
Where is E161b found?
E161b 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 (E161b) or by its full name, lutein. Common foods that may contain E161b include:
- Sweets
- Soft drinks
- Desserts
- Ice cream
- Sauces and snacks
Full guide: foods containing E161b and how to spot it on labels →
E161b is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Lutein safe?
Is E161b safe?
E161b 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 E161b.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E161b vegan?
E161b is vegan. Extracted from marigold petals, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E161b →Is E161b halal?
E161b is halal. Extracted from marigold petals, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E161b →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E161b in food?
E161b is Lutein — extracted from marigold petals, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
Is E161b safe to eat?
Yes. E161b is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E161b vegan?
E161b is vegan. Extracted from marigold petals, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E161b halal?
E161b is halal. Extracted from marigold petals, 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).