Canthaxanthin
Also known as: E161g
EFSA has reduced the ADI for canthaxanthin to 0.03 mg/kg bw/day due to retinal pigment deposits at higher chronic exposures. Pigment crystals in the retina (canthaxanthin retinopathy) were observed historically with high-dose oral 'tanning pills' (no longer marketed in many regions).
What it is
Canthaxanthin (E161g) is a carotenoid pigment used as a food and feed colorant.
Orange-red colorant; also used in animal feed (notably for salmon flesh and egg yolk pigmentation).
Why it's flagged
- retinal pigment deposits at high doses
- lowered ADI
What regulators actually say
"The color additive canthaxanthin may be safely used for coloring foods generally... in amounts not to exceed 30 milligrams per pound of solid or semisolid food or per pint of liquid food."
"The Panel established an ADI of 0.03 mg/kg bw/day for canthaxanthin (E161g) based on retinal pigmentation."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as a color additive in food at limited levels; 21 CFR 73.75 (≤30 mg/lb).
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as E161g; ADI 0.03 mg/kg bw/day (EFSA 2010 re-evaluation).
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