What is E161g? Canthaxanthin Explained
As an Amazon Associate and AWIN affiliate partner we earn from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. Disclosure ›
E161g is Canthaxanthin — a colour (synthetic or crustacean shell) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks.
What is E161g (Canthaxanthin)?
E161g is Canthaxanthin, a food additive classified as a colour that give food its colour. A colour (synthetic or crustacean shell) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks. You'll find it in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks, cake icing and many other packaged foods. Like every E-number, E161g 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 E161g found?
E161g (Canthaxanthin) 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
Is E161g safe?
E161g is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Canthaxanthin in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either active scientific debate, mandatory warning labels, allergen status, or conditions attached to its authorisation.
EFSA opinion: Canthaxanthin — status Some concerns.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E161g. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Cleaner alternatives to E161g
79% protein clean-label snack
MORiSH Pork Chicharrónes
Prefer snacks with no artificial colours, preservatives or sweeteners? MORiSH pork chicharrónes are 79% protein, zero carbs and have a short, readable ingredient list.
Circle DNA Premium Test
Find out how your body responds to foods and additives — nutrition, sensitivities and 500+ reports from one at-home DNA test.
E161g FAQs
What is E161g in food?
E161g is Canthaxanthin — a colour (synthetic or crustacean shell) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks.
Is E161g safe to eat?
E161g is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Canthaxanthin in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either act
Is E161g vegan?
E161g (Canthaxanthin) may or may not be vegan — it depends on the source used by the manufacturer.
Is E161g halal?
E161g (Canthaxanthin) is halal. It is derived from synthetic or crustacean shell, 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