E160F · Beta-apo-8'-carotenoic acid ethyl ester (C 30)
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E160F?
Beta-apo-8'-carotenoic acid ethyl ester (E160f) is a synthetic carotenoid pigment, an ethyl ester derivative of beta-apo-8'-carotenal, giving an orange-red color. It is used to color margarine, dairy products, and beverages. It is considered safe by regulatory agencies including EFSA and FDA within approved limits, and shares the same general safety profile as related carotenoid colorants such as E160e.
Also appears on labels as: Beta-apo-8'-carotenoic acid ethyl ester, β-apo-8'-carotenoic acid ethyl ester, Beta-apo-8'-carotenoic ester, Ethyl beta-apo-8'-carotenoate, C30 carotenoid, C-30 carotenoid, C 30 carotenoid, E160f, E 160f, E-160f, Food Orange 6, Apocarotenyl ethyl ester.
What the evidence says
- Excessive intake may cause carotenodermia, a harmless orange-yellow skin discoloration, similar to other carotenoids.
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-use levels.
Frequently asked questions
Is E160F safe?
Our overall verdict for E160F (Beta-apo-8'-carotenoic acid ethyl ester (C 30)) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E160F vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Beta-apo-8'-carotenoic acid ethyl ester (C 30) — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E160F and why is it used?
Beta-apo-8'-carotenoic acid ethyl ester (E160f) is a synthetic carotenoid pigment, an ethyl ester derivative of beta-apo-8'-carotenal, giving an orange-red color. It is used to color margarine, dairy products, and beverages. It is considered safe by regulatory agencies including EFSA and FDA within approved limits, and shares the same general safety profile as related carotenoid colorants such as E160e.
Does E160F contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Beta-apo-8'-carotenoic acid ethyl ester (C 30).
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.