colour INS 160c

Paprika extract E160c

natural — Primarily plant-derived.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Capsanthin and capsorubin

CAS: 465-42-9 (capsanthin), 470-38-2 (capsorubin)

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Paprika extract occurs naturally in red bell peppers (Capsicum annuum) and paprika. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Paprika extract is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

In the EU, Paprika extract has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Widely permitted in various food categories

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved Exempt from certification

Widely used in cheese, sausages, and snack foods

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Also listed as トウガラシ色素 (capsicum pigment)

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

0–24 mg/kg bw/day (for full extract); 0–1.7 mg/kg bw/day (for total carotenoids)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

0.6 mg/kg bw/day (for total carotenoids from E160c)

Natural Occurrence

Natural orange-red carotenoid pigments extracted from paprika fruits. Capsanthin and capsorubin are the main coloring compounds, responsible for the vibrant red-orange hue of paprika.

red bell peppers (Capsicum annuum)paprikared chili peppers

Manufacturing

Method: extraction

Extracted from the fruits of sweet red peppers (Capsicum annuum) using solvent extraction with vegetable oil or other approved solvents. The extract is then refined to concentrate the carotenoid content.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used as a colorant in cosmetics and personal care products.

Medical

Used as a colorant in pharmaceutical preparations.

Industrial

Used in textile dyeing and natural colorants.

Household

Commonly used as a culinary spice (paprika powder)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Paprika extract (E160c)?

Paprika extract (E160c) is a colour used in food products. It is natural and plant-derived. Natural orange-red carotenoid pigments extracted from paprika fruits. Capsanthin and capsorubin are the main coloring compounds, responsible for the vibrant red-orange hue of paprika.

Where is Paprika extract found naturally?

Paprika extract is naturally found in red bell peppers (Capsicum annuum), paprika, red chili peppers. Natural orange-red carotenoid pigments extracted from paprika fruits. Capsanthin and capsorubin are the main coloring compounds, responsible for the vibrant red-orange hue of paprika.

What is the ADI for Paprika extract?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Paprika extract is 0–24 mg/kg bw/day (for full extract); 0–1.7 mg/kg bw/day (for total carotenoids) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Paprika extract?

Paprika extract is used in various food categories including Unripened cheese, Meat preparations. It is used as a colour in these products.

Is Paprika extract the same as Paprika oleoresin?

Yes, Paprika extract is also known as Paprika oleoresin, Capsanthin, Capsorubin, CI 75470. These are different names for the same substance.