Ingredient · Updated
Beta Carotene (Color)
What is Beta Carotene (Color)?
Beta Carotene Color is a natural pigment that gives foods a vibrant orange hue. It is derived from natural sources like carrots, sweet potatoes, and other orange-colored vegetables and fruits.
It is commonly used in foods and beverages to provide a bright, appealing color. In terms of health, beta carotene is also known as a precursor to vitamin A, which is essential for vision and immune function. However, its use as a coloring agent in typical food quantities is not associated with significant health risks or benefits.
When you see Beta Carotene Color on a label, it indicates that the product contains a naturally sourced color additive that is generally recognized as safe by food regulatory authorities.
Commonly found in: foods, beverages, makeup, supplements
Benefits
- Can be converted to vitamin A in the body, supporting vision and immune function.
Beta Carotene is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food colorant.
Research supports its safe use in food coloring, although supplementation with high doses has mixed findings regarding health effects.
Beta Carotene Color is plant-derived and generally accepted by vegan consumers.
Sources: Everything Added to Food in the United States (EAFUS): A Food Additive Database
Scout's take
Added color: a yellow pigment mixed into the oil so the popcorn looks buttered.
The case for
May contribute to vitamin A intake when consumed in larger quantities.
from the analysis of 365 Whole Foods Market Plant-Based Smoked Gouda Style SlicesMore from Scout's analyses
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
from the analysis of 365 Whole Foods Market Plant-Based Smoked Gouda Style SlicesFound in 3 products
Where Beta Carotene (Color) shows up
- Salty Snacks 2 products
- Cheese 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Beta Carotene (Color)
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Beta Carotene (Color), scoring 80 or above.
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