Ingredient

Bell Pepper Extract

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use bell pepper extract primarily as a natural food coloring to impart red …

What is Bell Pepper Extract?

Bell pepper extract is a natural coloring agent derived from bell peppers. It is typically made by extracting pigments like capsanthin and capsorubin from the fruit of the Capsicum annuum plant. This process captures the vibrant red and orange hues characteristic of bell peppers.

Is Bell Pepper Extract vegan?

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

Is Bell Pepper Extract gluten-free?

Bell pepper extract is not derived from any of the nine major allergens and does not contain gluten.

What is Bell Pepper Extract used for?

Manufacturers use bell pepper extract primarily as a natural food coloring to impart red and orange shades to products.

Is Bell Pepper Extract safe?

Bell pepper extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use bell pepper extract primarily as a natural food coloring to impart red and orange shades to products. It is often found in snack foods, processed meats, sauces, and dairy products. Its function is to enhance the visual appeal of foods without relying on artificial dyes.

Health notes

Bell pepper extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. It is a source of carotenoids, which are antioxidants. Regulatory bodies like EFSA have evaluated similar natural colorants, but specific evaluations for bell pepper extract's safety at typical intake levels are not widely publicized. Evidence suggests it is safe when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Allergen info

Bell pepper extract is not derived from any of the nine major allergens and does not contain gluten. Not a major allergen.

Foods that contain Bell Pepper Extract

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.