Ingredient · E160a

With Beta Carotene

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Beta-carotene is primarily used as a food colorant to impart yellow to orange hues …

What it is

Beta-carotene is a pigment found naturally in many fruits and vegetables, giving them yellow, orange, and red colors. It is often produced commercially through chemical synthesis or extracted from natural sources like algae or plants. In the body, beta-carotene can be converted into vitamin A.

Why it's used

Beta-carotene is primarily used as a food colorant to impart yellow to orange hues in products like margarine, cheese, and baked goods. It is also sometimes added as a source of vitamin A, contributing to the nutritional profile of fortified foods.

Health notes

Beta-carotene is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food coloring and nutrient. The WHO/IARC has classified beta-carotene as 'not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans.' While high doses from supplements have been linked to increased lung cancer risk in smokers, this is not typically a concern with dietary intake from food. JECFA has evaluated beta-carotene and set an acceptable daily intake.

Allergen info

Beta-carotene is not one of the 9 FDA major allergens and does not contain gluten.

Products containing With Beta Carotene

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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.