Betanin
Betanin, INS 162, E 162
Beetroot (Beta vulgaris) is native throughout Europe and is widely used as a natural source of colour in the food industry. Besides sugars, minerals, and small amounts of protein, beetroot contains Betanin – a red-violet betalain pigment, responsible for beetroot’s characteristic deep red-violet shades.
Applications in the Food Industry
Beetroot pigments are water-soluble, they are commonly used in applications such as:
- Ice cream and water ice
- Chocolate decoration
- Instant desserts
- Instant drinks
- Dairy products
- Confectionery
Specification and Regulatory status
- USA:
Beet powder (Dehydrated beets) – additive exempted by certification, GMP in food
https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/section-73.40Vegetable juice for coloring – additive exempted by certification, GMP in food
https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/section-73.260 -
CODEX:
Beet red INS162 – JECFA evaluation
Table 3 – GMP to multiple food categories GSFA - EU:
Beetroot Red E162 – Purity criteria Regulation 231/2012
Group II: Colour at quantum satis – Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008