Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E160a: Beta-Carotene (Provitamin A Orange Color) vs. E160c: Paprika Extract (Capsanthin / Capsorubin)
Comparing 2 standards across 10 specifications. 10 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E160a: Beta-Carotene (Provitamin A Orange Color)
E160c: Paprika Extract (Capsanthin / Capsorubin)
E160a (Beta-Carotene) is a fat-soluble orange carotenoid tetraterpenoid obtained by synthesis, fermentation of Blakeslea trispora, or plant extraction. INS 160a(i)/(ii), ADI is Not Specified, providing deep orange-yellow hues in dairy, juices, and fats.
E160c (Paprika Extract / Oleoresin) is a natural lipid-soluble red-orange colorant extracted from dried red peppers (Capsicum annuum). INS 160c, ADI is 24 mg/kg bw/day, delivering rich reddish coloration to processed meats, seasonings, and dressings without spiciness.
Specification Comparison Table
10 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E160a | E160c |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 160a(i) / 160a(ii) | INS 160c |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Yellow-Orange), Provitamin A Fortificant | Food Color (Red-Orange) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Specified (Quantum Satis from dietary/fermentation forms) | 24 mg / kg body weight per day |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
11 conjugated double-bond chromophore system absorbing blue-violet light; converts into 2 molecules of retinol (Vitamin A) | Keto-carotenoid chromophores imparting heat-stable red color (capsaicin heat is removed) |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Butter, margarine, processed cheeses, orange juices, baked pastries | Chorizo, hot dog casings, marinades, snack seasonings, cheese dips |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Plant/Fermentation), Halal, Kosher Certified | 100% Vegan (Red pepper solvent extract), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.95) | EFSA Authorized / FDA 21 CFR 73.345 |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C40H56 | — |
|
Key Chromophores
|
— | Capsanthin (C40H56O3) and Capsorubin (C40H56O4) |
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