E161B · Lutein
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E161B?
Lutein is a naturally occurring carotenoid found in leafy green vegetables, corn, and egg yolks, commonly extracted from marigold flowers for commercial use. It is used both as a food colorant (E161b) and a dietary supplement, valued for its role in eye health — it accumulates in the retina, where it helps filter blue light. Some evidence suggests regular dietary intake may support reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), though this is best supported for dietary lutein rather than the additive specifically. It is considered safe by regulatory agencies at typical use levels.
Also appears on labels as: Lutein, E161b, E 161b, E-161b, Lutein Extract, Lutein Carotenoid, Natural Lutein, Marigold Extract, Liuteinas, Luteīns, Luteiin, Luteina.
What the evidence says
- No significant safety concerns identified at typical food-use or supplemental levels.
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-use levels.
Research behind the verdict
- Lutein (E161b) – Recent Findings — EFSA Panel on Food Additives, EFSA Journal (2010). Xanthophyll carotenoid; EFSA ADI 1 mg/kg bw/day; safe; used in fortified foods and supplements.[safe_in_moderation]
Frequently asked questions
Is E161B safe?
Our overall verdict for E161B (Lutein) 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 E161B vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Lutein — 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 E161B and why is it used?
Lutein is a naturally occurring carotenoid found in leafy green vegetables, corn, and egg yolks, commonly extracted from marigold flowers for commercial use. It is used both as a food colorant (E161b) and a dietary supplement, valued for its role in eye health — it accumulates in the retina, where it helps filter blue light. Some evidence suggests regular dietary intake may support reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), though this is best supported for dietary lutein rather than the additive specifically. It is considered safe by regulatory agencies at typical use levels.
Does E161B contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Lutein, though some people report sensitivity (ragweed/marigold family sensitivity (rare, since lutein is often marigold-derived)).
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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.