Lutein
Also known as: E161b, Mixed Carotenoids, Xanthophyll, tagete extract
Lutein is a naturally occurring carotenoid also found in many vegetables. It is approved as a food colorant in the EU and is sold as a dietary supplement linked to eye health benefits.
What it is
Lutein (E161b), a yellow-orange xanthophyll carotenoid extracted primarily from marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta) or alfalfa.
Used as a natural yellow-to-orange food coloring agent.
Why it's flagged
- high-dose supplement use may cause skin yellowing (carotenodermia)
What regulators actually say
"The Panel established an ADI of 1 mg/kg bw/day for lutein based on the NOAEL of 200 mg/kg bw/day from a 90-day study in rats and an uncertainty factor of 200."
"The color additive Tagetes (Aztec marigold) meal and extract may be safely used in chicken feed."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as color additive from marigold extract; lutein from Tagetes erecta listed in 21 CFR 73.295
European Union — EFSA
Approved as E161b with ADI of 1 mg/kg bw/day
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app