Beta-Apo-8′-Carotenal (C30)
Also known as: E160e, Apocarotenal, Beta-apo-8'-carotenal, C.I. Food orange 6, E number 160E
EFSA's 2012/2014 re-evaluation lowered the ADI to 0.05 mg/kg bw/day based on a 13-week rat study showing kidney effects. EFSA exposure assessment found this newly-set ADI is reached or exceeded by adults at the 95th percentile and by children on average and at high consumption.
What it is
Β-Apo-8'-carotenal (C30) - a synthetic carotenoid food color related to beta-carotene; produces orange-yellow to red shades.
Synthetic color additive (orange/red shades).
Why it's flagged
- EFSA-revised ADI may be exceeded by high consumers, especially children
- kidney effects observed in rat subchronic toxicity study
What regulators actually say
"The Panel concluded that based on the LOAEL of 10 mg/kg bw/day from the 13 week study in rats and an uncertainty factor of 200, an ADI for β-apo-8'-carotenal of 0.05 mg/kg bw/day can be established."
"β-Apo-8'-carotenal... may be safely used for the coloring of foods generally... in amounts not exceeding 15 milligrams per pound of solid or semisolid food or per pint of liquid food."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted color additive exempt from certification (21 CFR 73.90).
European Union — EFSA
Permitted (E 160e); ADI 0.05 mg/kg bw/day (EFSA 2014).
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