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E161bColorantLow concern
Lutein
In plain words
The short version
A natural xanthophyll carotenoid from marigold petals — clean-label yellow and the dominant macular-pigment supplement.
Why it's green
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
Safety profile
ADI of 0–2 mg/kg body weight (EFSA 2010 re-evaluation, for the additive form). Supplemental use has a longer safety history with no documented adverse effects at typical intake. Unlike canthaxanthin, no retinopathy concerns at any realistic dose.
The detail
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.