E160e: Beta-apo-8-carotenal
Main role: orange-red coloring
Also listed as: beta-apo-8′-carotenal, apocarotenal
What is E160e (Beta-apo-8-carotenal)?
E160e is a carotenoid coloring with a chemical structure related to, but distinct from, beta-carotene. It gives an orange-to-red tone and is supplied in preparations suitable for the food being colored. Sharing a carotenoid family does not make two additives interchangeable.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is orange-red coloring. Coloring changes appearance. It does not establish the amount of fruit, vegetables, vitamins, or minerals in a serving. Different pigment preparations can have different processing properties and permitted uses.
Food and formulation examples
- Fat-based spreads
- Beverage color preparations
- Desserts
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E160e, E 160e, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include beta-apo-8′-carotenal, apocarotenal. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Beta-apo-8-carotenal is not E160a beta-carotene or E160d lycopene. Use the full ingredient name when comparing coloring systems rather than grouping every orange pigment together.
Is E160e safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E160e as Beta-apo-8′-carotenal (C 30). This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.