What is E163?
E163 is Anthocyanins — extracted from grape skins, berries and red cabbage, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
What is E163 (Anthocyanins)?
E163 is the E-number for anthocyanins, 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 grape skins, berries and red cabbage. Like every E-number, E163 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 E163 in detail below.
Where is E163 found?
E163 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 (E163) or by its full name, anthocyanins. Common foods that may contain E163 include:
- Sweets
- Soft drinks
- Desserts
- Ice cream
- Sauces and snacks
Full guide: foods containing E163 and how to spot it on labels →
E163 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Anthocyanins safe?
Is E163 safe?
E163 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 E163.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E163 vegan?
E163 is vegan. Extracted from grape skins, berries and red cabbage, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E163 →Is E163 halal?
E163 is halal. Extracted from grape skins, berries and red cabbage, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E163 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E163 in food?
E163 is Anthocyanins — extracted from grape skins, berries and red cabbage, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
Is E163 safe to eat?
Yes. E163 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E163 vegan?
E163 is vegan. Extracted from grape skins, berries and red cabbage, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E163 halal?
E163 is halal. Extracted from grape skins, berries and red cabbage, 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).