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E 162Colours

Beetroot Red, betanin

Characteristics

Additive NameBeetroot Red, betanin
E No.E 162
TypeIndividual Substance
In plain language

A natural red pigment extracted from beetroot. Used to give foods a vivid pink-to-deep-red colour in products like processed meats, jams, breakfast cereals, and pickled vegetables. It fades with heat, light, and acidity, so manufacturers often use it in less processed or chilled products. One of the most benign colourants in the food supply. No known toxicity, no links to adverse health effects. Sensitive individuals may notice pink-coloured urine after consuming beetroot — harmless and temporary. Considered safe by EFSA with no defined acceptable daily intake limit.

Conditions of Use

This additive is authorised to be used in the following 10 food categories:

4.2.1dried fruit and vegetables
Quantum satis (no max)
only preserves of red fruit
4.2.2fruit and vegetables in vinegar oil or brine
Quantum satis (no max)
only preserves of red fruit
4.2.3canned or bottled fruit and vegetables
Quantum satis (no max)
only vegetables (excluding olives)
4.2.5jam jellies and marmalades and similar products
Quantum satis (no max)
except chestnut puree
6.3breakfast cereals
Maximum Level = 200 mg/kg
only fruit flavoured breakfast cereals
Footnote 53: E 120, E 162 and E 163 may be added individually or in combination
8.3.1Non-heat-treated processed meat
Quantum satis (no max)
only sausages
8.3.2Heat-treated processed meat
Quantum satis (no max)
only sausages, patés and terrines
9.2Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans
Quantum satis (no max)
only fish paste and crustacean paste
8.2Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004
Quantum satis (no max)
only merguez type products, salsicha fresca, butifarra fresca, longaniza fresca and chorizo fresco
4.2.4.1fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote
Quantum satis (no max)
Only seaweed-based fish roe analogues

Source

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E 162 - Beetroot Red, betanin | E-Number Information