Tagetes Extract

Prepared at the 57th JECFA (2001) and published in FNP 52 Add 9 (2001), superseding tentative specifications prepared at the 55th JECFA (2000) andpublished in FNP 52 Add 8 (2000). No ADI was allocated at the 31st JECFA  (1987).
SYNONYMS Xanthophylls
DEFINITION The major colouring principles are lutein and its dipalmitate (helenien), obtained by hexane extraction of dried petals of Tagetes erecta L. with subsequent removal of the solvent. Other hydroxy derivatives of carotenes may be present together with other oxyderivatives such as epoxides; may contain fats, oils and waxes naturally occurring in the plant material. Products of commerce are normally further formulated e.g. in order to standardise the colour content or to obtain water soluble/dispersible products.
Chemical names Lutein: β,ε-Carotene-3,3'-diol,
Helenien: Lutein dipalmitate; β,ε-Carotene-3,3'-diol dipalmitate
C.A.S. number 127-40-2 (Lutein)
Chemical formula Lutein: C40H5602
Helenien: C72H11604
Formula weight Lutein: 568.88
Helenien: 1045.71
Assay Content of total colouring matter (calculated as lutein) not less than declared
DESCRIPTION Dark yellow-brown liquid
FUNCTIONAL USES Colour