Ingredient Guide

🇬🇧 Beta-Carotene on Food Labels in UK

Beta-Carotene is permitted with proper declaration in United Kingdom: declare as "beta-carotene (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 United Kingdom, Beta-Carotene is regulated under Retained EU Law & UK FIC as a food coloring. UK retains EU authorization. Same declaration requirements. Can be used as both colorant and nutritional supplement.

What You Must Include

Declare as "beta-carotene (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)"
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)"

"beta-carotene (E160a)" in ingredient list

Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... beta-carotene (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 UK rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Declare as "beta-carotene (E160a)" in the ingredient list. UK retains EU authorization. Same declaration requirements. Can be used as both colorant and nutritional supplement.

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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