E160E – ß-Apo-8'-carotenal
ColouringDescription
C40H56O, a red-orange carotenoid pigment naturally found in some fruits and vegetables, also produced synthetically; used as a food coloring agent.
Notes
Beta-apo-8-carotenal is a carotenoid pigment that occurs naturally in small amounts in certain fruits and vegetables, giving them red-orange hues. While it can be found in nature, the version used in food production is typically made synthetically in laboratories. The manufacturing process involves chemically modifying other carotenoids or building the molecule from simpler chemical compounds, creating a pure, concentrated form of this red-orange pigment. This additive functions purely as a food coloring agent, providing vibrant red-orange colors to various products. You'll commonly encounter it in processed foods like cheese, butter, margarine, baked goods, beverages, and confectionery where an appealing orange or reddish color is desired. It's particularly useful because it provides consistent, stable coloring that doesn't fade easily under normal storage and processing conditions. While chemically identical to the compound found in nature, the commercial version is synthetically produced, making it suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets since no animal products are involved in its manufacture. It doesn't contain any major allergens and is compatible with halal and kosher dietary requirements. Like other carotenoids, it's considered safe for consumption at the levels typically used in foods, and it's approved by food safety authorities worldwide. Some people actually prefer products colored with carotenoids like this because they're chemically related to vitamin A, though this particular compound doesn't have significant nutritional value.