What is E 160c?
E 160c is the E number of Paprika extract, capsanthin, capsorubin. Red-orange colour extracted from paprika. It is used in sausages, sauces, seasonings and snacks.
Where is E 160c most commonly used?
Paprika extract mainly colours sausages, crisps and other snacks as well as seasonings. It is also common in sauces, cheese and ready meals.
What is E 160c used for?
E 160c belongs to the group "Colours" and is used as colour.
- Colour: Colours add or restore colour in a food.
Which foods may contain E 160c?
According to the European Commission's database, E 160c may be used in 54 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:
- Dairy products and analogues
- Edible ices
- Fruit and vegetables
- Confectionery
- Cereals and cereal products
- Bakery wares
- Meat
- Fish and fisheries products
- Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
- Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
- Beverages
- Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
- Desserts
- Food supplements
- Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17
Is E 160c vegan?
Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.
Is E 160c linked to genetic engineering?
No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.
How does E 160c appear on the label?
In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Colour: E 160c" or "Colour: Paprika extract, capsanthin, capsorubin".
Sources
- Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, consolidated version of 18.08.2026, Annexes I and II, EUR-Lex
- Food Additives Database, European Commission (accessed 19 October 2026)