Anthocyanins
Also known as: E163, Anthocyanin
Anthocyanins are natural plant pigments with a long history of dietary intake. EFSA re-evaluated E163 (2013) and concluded current uses are not of safety concern at typical levels.
What it is
Anthocyanins – natural water-soluble plant pigments (E163) extracted from sources like grape skins, red cabbage, or black carrot.
Color (red, purple, blue depending on pH).
Why it's flagged
- pH-dependent color shift
- extracts may contain residual sulfites
What regulators actually say
"Grape color extract is a purplish-red liquid prepared from Concord grapes... The color additive may be safely used for the coloring of nonbeverage food."
"The Panel concluded that the available data do not give reason to revise the existing group acceptable daily intake of anthocyanins from grape skin extract."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
FDA permits grape color extract (21 CFR 73.169) and grape skin extract (21 CFR 73.170) and other anthocyanin-rich colorings; not certified colors.
European Union — EFSA
E163 authorized in EU under Regulation (EC) 1333/2008; ADI not specified but use considered safe at current levels.
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