E161J – Astaxanthi
ColouringDescription
Technical Description: A carotenoid pigment responsible for the pink/red color in aquatic animals like salmon, shrimp, and crustaceans. Produced synthetically or extracted from algae (Haematococcus pluvialis). Used as a food coloring agent.
Notes
Astaxanthin is a pink-red carotenoid pigment that's responsible for the distinctive color of salmon, shrimp, lobster, and flamingos. In nature, it's produced by microscopic algae called Haematococcus pluvialis, which fish and crustaceans eat, causing the pigment to accumulate in their flesh. For commercial food use, astaxanthin is typically extracted from these algae through careful cultivation and processing, though it can also be produced synthetically. As a food coloring agent, astaxanthin provides beautiful pink to deep red hues and is commonly used in fish farming to give farmed salmon their characteristic color - wild salmon get this naturally from their algae-rich diet. You might also find it in beverages, baked goods, candies, and other processed foods where a pink or reddish color is desired. Beyond its coloring properties, astaxanthin is prized for being one of the most stable carotenoids, maintaining its vibrant color even when exposed to heat and light. Astaxanthin derived from algae is suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets, while the version from seafood sources would not be. The algae-derived form is generally acceptable under most religious dietary laws. Like other carotenoids, astaxanthin is considered very safe and is actually celebrated for its potent antioxidant properties - some studies suggest it's even more powerful than vitamin E or beta-carotene in protecting cells from damage.