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E161gColorantModerate concern
Canthaxanthin
In plain words
The short version
An orange-red carotenoid — banned in tanning supplements after eye-crystal retinopathy cases. Tightly restricted in food.
Why we flag it amber
It's permitted and generally considered safe, but there are a few reasons to be mindful — like sensitivities in some people, debated studies, or intake limits. The Safety section below explains the specifics.
Safety profile
ADI of 0–0.03 mg/kg body weight (EFSA 2010, lowered) — one of the lowest carotenoid ADIs because of the retinopathy history. Long-term ingestion of 30 mg/day for tanning produced reversible retinal crystals (canthaxanthin retinopathy). At permitted food levels, exposure is far below the threshold for retinal effects.
The detail
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.