Lutein (E161b) — What You Need to Know
The score is an eNumbers.org editorial summary, not an official agency rating or medical advice. Start with the regulatory status and primary sources below.
What Is Lutein?
Lutein is a naturally occurring carotenoid pigment primarily extracted from marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta). It is found naturally in dark green leafy vegetables, egg yolks, and corn. Lutein is extensively studied for its benefits to eye health, particularly in reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
What Is It Used For?
Provides yellow to orange coloring in baked goods, confectionery, and processed foods. Also widely sold as a dietary supplement for eye health.
Regulatory & Editorial Context
A naturally occurring carotenoid found in dark green leafy vegetables, egg yolks, and marigold flowers. Extensively studied for eye health benefits — associated with reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. EFSA set ADI of 1 mg/kg bw/day in 2010 for lutein as a food additive. Widely sold as a dietary supplement for eye health. No significant safety concerns at normal dietary or supplemental levels.
eNumbers.org currently assigns Lutein an editorial context label of Safe with a score of 9/10. This is 3.2 points above the database average for colorings (5.8/10). Dataset reference year: 2010.
This score is not issued by EFSA, FDA, WHO or another regulator.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E161b or 'Lutein'
▶Chemical Information
Primary Sources
Source review: 2026-08-08Official references relevant to this page. Check the agency record for current permitted uses, limits and jurisdiction-specific wording.
- European Commission: EU Food Additives Database ↗EU authorisations and conditions of use
- WHO / FAO JECFA: JECFA food-additives database ↗International evaluations and acceptable daily intakes
- European Food Safety Authority: Food colours ↗EFSA colour-additive evaluations and re-evaluation programme
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Food Additive Status List ↗U.S. food-ingredient regulatory references
Frequently Asked Questions about Lutein
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E161b
- INS Number
- 161b
- Category
- Colorings
- Origin
- Natural
- FDA Status
- GRAS (no objection for use as food ingredient)
- EFSA Status
- Authorized; ADI of 1 mg/kg bw/day (set in 2010)
- ADI
- 1 mg/kg bw/day
- Dataset Review
- 2010
Carriers, processing aids and product certification can change suitability. Verify the final label and certifier.
Related Additives
Other colorings in the same family