Paprika Extract (E160c) — What You Need to Know
What Is Paprika Extract?
Paprika Extract is a natural food coloring derived from the fruits of Capsicum annuum (sweet red peppers). It contains the carotenoid pigments capsanthin and capsorubin, which provide its characteristic orange-red color. It is one of the most widely used natural food colorings globally.
What Is It Used For?
Provides orange to red-orange coloring to cheese, sausages, snacks, and sauces. Commonly used as a natural alternative to synthetic red and orange dyes.
Safety Assessment
Natural color from paprika peppers, containing carotenoid pigments capsanthin and capsorubin. EFSA evaluated and found no safety concerns. Very widely used in both its natural spice form and as an extracted color. May cause reactions in people allergic to peppers or nightshade plants (Solanaceae), though this is rare. Generally considered one of the safest food colorings available.
Based on current evidence, Paprika Extract is rated Safe with a score of 9/10. This is 3.2 points above the average for colorings (5.8/10). Last reviewed by regulators: 2015.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E160c or 'Paprika Extract'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Paprika Extract
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E160c
- INS Number
- 160c
- Category
- Colorings
- Origin
- Natural
- FDA Status
- Approved (exempt from certification — natural color)
- EFSA Status
- Authorized; ADI not specified (considered safe, no numerical limit needed)
- ADI
- Not specified mg/kg bw/day
- Last Review
- 2015
Related Additives
Other colorings in the same family