E160a: Beta-Carotene (Provitamin A Orange Color) vs. E162: Beetroot Red (Betanin)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
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.
E162 (Beetroot Red / Betanin) is a water-soluble red-purple betacyanin pigment pressed or extracted from red beets (Beta vulgaris). INS 162, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), used in dairy, ice creams, and sausages.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E160a | E162 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 160a(i) / 160a(ii) | INS 162 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (Yellow-Orange), Provitamin A Fortificant | Food Color (Red-Purple) |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Specified (Quantum Satis from dietary/fermentation forms) | Not Limited (Quantum Satis) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
C40H56 | C24H26N2O13 (Betanin glucoside) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
11 conjugated double-bond chromophore system absorbing blue-violet light; converts into 2 molecules of retinol (Vitamin A) | Betanidin glycoside absorbing green light (535–538nm) to reflect intense magenta-red |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Butter, margarine, processed cheeses, orange juices, baked pastries | Strawberry yogurt, berry ice creams, confectionery, fruit preparations |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Plant/Fermentation), Halal, Kosher Certified | 100% Vegan (Beetroot juice extract), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.95) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 73.40) |