Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract
Bilberry extract is widely used as a food supplement with anthocyanin content as the main marker. EFSA's 2013 re-evaluation of anthocyanins (E163) established no safety concern at levels used as a food color.
What it is
Extract from European bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), rich in anthocyanins and flavonoids.
Antioxidant/functional ingredient and natural colorant component.
Why it's flagged
- Variable extract authenticity
- Possible mild GI effects at high doses
What regulators actually say
"EFSA conducted a scientific opinion on the re-evaluation of anthocyanins (E 163) as a food additive in 2013, including those derived from bilberry/blueberry sources."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Whole-fruit derived; bilberries are food. Extract subject to dietary supplement rules.
European Union — EFSA
Anthocyanins (E163) authorized as food color; bilberry as food/novel food in some applications.
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