Ingredient

Color Retention

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Allergen

Role in food

Manufacturers use color retention agents to make foods look more appealing and consistent. They …

What it is

Color retention refers to the ability of certain ingredients to maintain or enhance the color of food products. These can be natural or synthetic compounds that prevent color fading caused by light, air, or processing.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use color retention agents to make foods look more appealing and consistent. They are often found in processed fruits and vegetables, pickled items, snacks like popcorn and peanuts, and canned goods to preserve their original hues.

Health notes

In the US, the FDA regulates color retention agents. Some are considered GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) or are approved food additives. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated many of these substances. Evidence on the health effects of color retention agents at typical consumption levels is generally reassuring, though some synthetic colors have faced scrutiny regarding potential hyperactivity in children, leading to ongoing research and debate.

Allergen info

Color retention agents themselves are not typically major allergens. However, it's important to check the ingredient list of the final food product, as some may be derived from or contain allergens.

Products containing Color Retention

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Joseph's Fine Foods, LLC Jalapeno Stuffed Olives Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 107kcal 0Protein 10.7Fat 7.1Carbs BEAVER STREET FISHERIES, INC. 8 Oz Co Swordfish Steak Fish Unprepared/Unprocessed High in cholesterol — 25% DV per serving 142kcal 19.5Protein 7.1Fat 0Carbs NOT A BRANDED ITEM Cannellini Beans Canned & Bottled Beans High in sodium — 20% DV per serving 154kcal 9.2Protein 1.1Fat 26.9Carbs Beaver Street Fisheries Inc. 6 Oz Co Swordfish Steak Fish Unprepared/Unprocessed High in cholesterol — 25% DV per serving 142kcal 19.5Protein 7.1Fat 0Carbs Conagra Frozen Foods Premium Corn Dog Meals Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 33% DV per serving 217kcal 4.7Protein 7.5Fat 32.1Carbs Topco Associates, Inc. Pie Filling Or Topping Pastry Shells & Fillings 118kcal 0Protein 0Fat 29.4Carbs

Topco Associates, Inc. Pinto Beans Canned & Bottled Beans 80kcal 5.6Protein 0Fat 16.8Carbs Topco Associates, Inc. Butter Beans Canned & Bottled Beans 80kcal 4.8Protein 0.4Fat 15.2Carbs Food Town Stores Inc. Trail Mix, Tropical Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 429kcal 7.1Protein 21.4Fat 60.7Carbs Rite Aid Corporation Dried Mango Slices Wholesome Snacks 350kcal 0Protein 0Fat 85Carbs Ferris Coffee & Nut Co. Dried Papaya Chunks Wholesome Snacks High in added sugars — 26% DV per serving 333kcal 0Protein 0Fat 83.3Carbs Papa John's Salads & Produce Antipasto Salad Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in sodium — 41% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 117kcal 5.5Protein 8.0Fat 4.9Carbs

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.