Retains Product Color

Retinyl palmitate is a form of vitamin A, an essential nutrient. It is made by combining retinol (vitamin A) with palmitic acid, a fatty acid found in palm oil and animal fats. It is often used because it is more stable than pure vitamin A.

Manufacturers add retinyl palmitate to foods to help retain color and to fortify them with vitamin A. It is often found in fortified dairy products like milk and yogurt, as well as in some cereals, margarine, and baby foods.

Retinyl palmitate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a nutrient supplement. Vitamin A is essential for vision, immune function, and cell growth. The FDA monitors its use in food. JECFA has evaluated vitamin A compounds and set acceptable daily intakes. Excessive intake of vitamin A from all sources can lead to health issues, but this is unlikely from typical food fortification levels.