E160e - Beta-apo-8′-Carotinal (C30)

Origin

Beta-apo-8′-carotenal (E160e) is a carotenoid pigment. It can be found naturally in some fruits and vegetables, but is commercially produced synthetically or semi-synthetically. The synthetic production typically involves chemical synthesis from beta-carotene or other carotenoid precursors. Semi-synthetic production involves extraction from natural sources followed by chemical modification.

Usage

E160e is used as a food coloring agent, providing a yellow-orange to reddish-orange hue. It is often used in products such as margarine, cheese, sauces, snack foods, and beverages to enhance their color. It is also used in animal feed to enhance the color of egg yolks and poultry skin. The color is stable to heat and alkali, but is affected by light and oxidizing agents. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has re-evaluated the safety of carotenoids used as food additives and established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI). The ADI for beta-apo-8′-carotenal is 0-5 mg/kg body weight per day.

Side Effects

Beta-apo-8′-carotenal is generally considered safe for human consumption at the levels typically used in food. EFSA has concluded that the current uses of beta-apo-8′-carotenal as a food additive do not pose a health concern for the general population at the current ADI. However, as with any food additive, some individuals may experience sensitivity or allergic reactions. High doses of carotenoids can lead to carotenodermia, a harmless yellowing of the skin due to carotenoid deposition, but this is not typically associated with the levels found in food additives.

Regulatory Status

E160e is approved for use as a food additive in the European Union (EU) and is listed under Annex II of Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives. It is also approved for use in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is listed under 21 CFR 73.90. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has also evaluated beta-apo-8′-carotenal and established an ADI.