Beetroot Red
The short version
The natural deep-red pigment of beetroot (betanin) — a vegan alternative to carmine.
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
Where it comes from
Extracted from red beetroot (Beta vulgaris) by pressing, filtering, and spray-drying the juice or by concentrating with ion-exchange. Betanin is the dominant betalain pigment responsible for the color.
How it's used
Used in yogurts, ice cream, fruit fillings, candies, and powdered mixes where a natural pink-to-red tone is wanted. The dominant vegan alternative to carmine (E120) in clean-label reformulations.
Safety profile
ADI not specified. Considered safe. Some individuals genetically excrete the pigment in urine (beeturia), giving a harmless pink color — this also occurs with raw beetroot consumption.
Physical & chemical properties
Bright red-violet powder, soluble in water. Sensitive to heat, light, and oxygen — limits use to refrigerated and non-thermally-processed products. Color shifts toward yellow above pH 7.
Regulation worldwide
Permitted globally without restrictive limits for food use.
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.