Ingredient · E160a(ii)

Apo-carotenal Coloring

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Manufacturers use apo-carotenal to add or restore color to foods. It provides a vibrant …

What it is

Apo-carotenal is a synthetic orange-yellow color additive. It is made from beta-carotene, a naturally occurring pigment found in carrots and other colorful fruits and vegetables. The process involves chemical modification of beta-carotene.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use apo-carotenal to add or restore color to foods. It provides a vibrant orange-yellow hue. It is commonly found in cheeses, dairy products, baked goods, and processed meats.

Health notes

Apo-carotenal is approved by the FDA as a color additive. Both the FDA and EFSA have evaluated its safety. JECFA has also evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. At typical consumption levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects. Evidence does not suggest it causes harm.

Allergen info

Apo-carotenal is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Apo-carotenal Coloring

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Ibp, Inc. Burgers Patties, Cheesy Jalapeno Other Meats High in sodium — 32% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 32% DV per serving 245kcal 17.9Protein 17.9Fat 4.0Carbs Ibp, Inc. Cheesy Bacon Burgers Other Meats High in sodium — 32% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 32% DV per serving 245kcal 17.9Protein 17.9Fat 4.0Carbs Double B Foods, Inc. Jalapeno Cheddar Kolaches Sausage Rolls, Jalapeno Cheddar Frozen Appetizers & Hors D'oeuvres High in sodium — 21% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 333kcal 12.3Protein 17.5Fat 31.6Carbs The Kroger Co. Kroger, Smoked Cheddar Bratwurst, Smoked Sausage With Cheddar Cheese Sausages, Hotdogs & Brats High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 303kcal 12.1Protein 24.2Fat 7.6Carbs

Double B Foods, Inc. Hardwood Smoked Sausage With Real Cheddar Cheese Kolaches Sausage Rolls, Hardwood Smoked Sausage With Real Cheddar Cheese Frozen Appetizers & Hors D'oeuvres High in sodium — 20% DV per serving 316kcal 10.5Protein 15.8Fat 28.1Carbs Ibp, Inc. Seasoned Beef & Cheddar Cheese Patties Other Meats High in sodium — 40% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 90% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 32% DV per serving 305kcal 15.2Protein 25.8Fat 2.6Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.