Ingredient Guide

🇪🇺 Beta-Carotene on Food Labels in EU

Beta-Carotene is permitted with proper declaration in European Union: declare as "beta-carotene (E160a) or carotenes (E160a)" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Orange-yellow pigment and vitamin A precursor used as a natural food coloring and nutritional supplement. In European Union, Beta-Carotene is regulated under FIC Regulation 1169/2011 as a food coloring. Authorized under Regulation (EC) 1333/2008. Must be declared as a food colour with functional class "colour" and E-number. Can be natural (from plants/fungi) or synthetic — both have the same E160a designation. If used as a vitamin A precursor (nutrient), different rules apply under Directive 2002/46/EC.

What You Must Include

Declare as "beta-carotene (E160a) or carotenes (E160a)" in the ingredient list
Declare with functional class: "coloring" and E-number E160a
Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources

Common Violations

Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "beta-carotene (E160a) or carotenes (E160a)"
Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Beta-Carotene
Omitting the E-number E160a where required
Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Beta-Carotene content

Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"coloring: beta-carotene (E160a) or carotenes (E160a)"

"beta-carotene (E160a) or carotenes (E160a)" in ingredient list

Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... beta-carotene (E160a) or carotenes (E160a) ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (Beta carotene, β-Carotene) without the approved declaration name

Ingredient list with "Beta-Carotene" without functional class or E-number

"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required

How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Beta-Carotene and all its common names (E160a, Beta carotene, β-Carotene, Provitamin A) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under EU rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How must Beta-Carotene be declared on food labels in EU?

Declare as "beta-carotene (E160a) or carotenes (E160a)" in the ingredient list. Authorized under Regulation (EC) 1333/2008. Must be declared as a food colour with functional class "colour" and E-number. Can be natural (from plants/fungi) or synthetic — both have the same E160a designation. If used as a vitamin A precursor (nutrient), different rules apply under Directive 2002/46/EC.

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Beta-Carotene?

Beta-Carotene may appear under the following names: E160a, Beta carotene, β-Carotene, Provitamin A, Natural Yellow 26. Common hidden sources include: Margarine, Cheese, Butter alternatives, Orange juices, Some breakfast cereals, Confectionery.

Is Beta-Carotene banned or restricted in any market?

Beta-Carotene is permitted in all major markets with proper declaration.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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