I would like to talk about an additive used as a colorant in food. In this article, ‘What is beta carotene (E160)? In which foods is it found? In which packaged products is it used?’ You can find answers to questions such as.

Colorants used in foods have become indispensable additives. Consumer taste and diversity have been an important factor in determining the color of foods. Color increases the appeal of foods. So much so that many of us hesitate when we see a color that we do not like or that we are not accustomed to seeing in a certain food.

Colorants used to color food are divided into natural and synthetic. Natural colorants are synthesized by plants, animals or microorganisms.

What is Beta Carotene (E160)?

Beta carotene, which we frequently encounter on labels, is also found in carotenoids, one of the naturally used colorant groups. Some of the colorants in the carotenoid group are converted to vitamin A in the body. Beta carotene is also in the group that is converted to vitamin A.

Beta carotene gives yellow and orange hues. It is found in significant amounts in carrots. Apart from carrots, it is found in fruits and vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, cabbage, melon, apricot.

In Which Foods is Beta Carotene Used?

It can be used in products such as instant beverage powders, candies, biscuits, sausage, salami, butter, instant soup. There is no restriction in terms of amount of use.

It was determined as the lowest amount (QS) at which the desired effect was achieved. The E code for beta carotene is E160.