Beta-Carotene is permitted with proper declaration in European Union: declare as "beta-carotene (E160a) or carotenes (E160a)" in the ingredient list.
Beta-carotene (E160a) is the orange provitamin-A pigment from carrots and other plants, used to colour margarine, drinks, and dairy products. In European Union, Beta-Carotene is regulated under FIC Regulation 1169/2011 as a food coloring. Authorized under Regulation (EC) 1333/2008. Must be declared as a food colour with functional class "colour" and E-number. Can be natural (from plants/fungi) or synthetic — both have the same E160a designation. If used as a vitamin A precursor (nutrient), different rules apply under Directive 2002/46/EC.
LabelGuard scans your label for Beta-Carotene and all its common names (E160a, Beta carotene, β-Carotene, Provitamin A) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under EU rules.
Start Your Compliance CheckBeta-carotene (E160a) is the orange provitamin-A pigment from carrots and other plants, used to colour margarine, drinks, and dairy products. It commonly appears in: Margarine, Cheese, Butter alternatives, Orange juices, Some breakfast cereals.
As a food colour it is safe, and EFSA confirmed this in its 2012 re-evaluation. The caveat comes from supplements, not food: trials in the 1990s (ATBC, CARET) found high-dose beta-carotene supplements (20+ mg/day) increased lung-cancer risk in smokers — intakes far above anything achievable from coloured foods.
Declare as "beta-carotene (E160a) or carotenes (E160a)" in the ingredient list. Authorized under Regulation (EC) 1333/2008. Must be declared as a food colour with functional class "colour" and E-number. Can be natural (from plants/fungi) or synthetic — both have the same E160a designation. If used as a vitamin A precursor (nutrient), different rules apply under Directive 2002/46/EC.
Beta-Carotene may appear under the following names: E160a, Beta carotene, β-Carotene, Provitamin A, Natural Yellow 26. Common hidden sources include: Margarine, Cheese, Butter alternatives, Orange juices, Some breakfast cereals, Confectionery.
Beta-Carotene is permitted in all major markets with proper declaration.
Last updated: 2026-07-20
Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.
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