Carotenes

Carotenes are a group of naturally occurring pigments found in plants, algae, and some bacteria. They are responsible for the yellow, orange, and red colors in many fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene, a common type, can be converted into vitamin A in the body.

Carotenes are primarily used as a natural food colorant, providing yellow to orange hues. They are added to a variety of products like beverages, dairy products, baked goods, and confectionery to enhance visual appeal. Some carotenes also act as antioxidants.

Carotenes are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as food ingredients. Beta-carotene is an important precursor to vitamin A, essential for vision, immune function, and skin health. High intake of beta-carotene from supplements has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers, but this is not typically a concern from food sources. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated various carotenoids, generally affirming their safety for use in food.