Ingredient

Apocartenol

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add apocarotenal to provide a consistent orange-yellow color in a variety of foods. …

What is Apocartenol?

Apocarotenal is a synthetic orange-yellow color additive. It is chemically related to beta-carotene, a naturally occurring pigment found in carrots and other vegetables. It is produced through chemical synthesis.

Is Apocartenol vegan?

Apocartenol is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Apocartenol gluten-free?

Apocarotenal is not derived from any of the 9 major allergens and does not contain gluten.

What is Apocartenol used for?

Manufacturers add apocarotenal to provide a consistent orange-yellow color in a variety of foods.

Is Apocartenol safe?

Apocarotenal is approved by the FDA as a color additive.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add apocarotenal to provide a consistent orange-yellow color in a variety of foods. It is often found in baked goods, confectionery, beverages, and dairy products. Its stability and vibrant color make it useful for enhancing visual appeal.

Health notes

Apocarotenal is approved by the FDA as a color additive. The FDA has evaluated its safety for use in food. International bodies like JECFA have also evaluated it. At typical consumption levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects for most people. Evidence does not suggest significant health concerns at approved levels.

Allergen info

Apocarotenal is not derived from any of the 9 major allergens and does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Apocartenol

Compare products →

Learn more

Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6: What the Evidence Says →

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: October 5, 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.