E160f — Ethyl ester of beta-apo-8'-carotenoic acid
E160f (Ethyl ester of beta-apo-8'-carotenoic acid), a color, is rated "safe": no significant concern. A synthetic carotenoid ester used as an orange color in fats and oils. EFSA-cleared; rarely used today.
What is Ethyl ester of beta-apo-8'-carotenoic acid?
A synthetic orange-colored carotenoid ester. Historically used in margarine, dressings, and some bakery products but now rarely seen on labels.
What does it do to the body?
Carotenoid family, with similar metabolism to beta-carotene. No safety concerns identified at the low levels permitted in food.
What regulators say
EFSA confirmed safety and authorisation; the EU dropped its authorisation in 2014 after the manufacturer withdrew the substance for lack of commercial use. If still seen on imported products it remains within previous EFSA-cleared limits.
Risk rating: Safe
Cleared by EFSA with no significant concern at typical dietary exposure. Common, well-studied, and not a reason to put a product back on the shelf.