β-CAROTENE, synthetic
Prepared at the 74thJECFA (2011) and published in FAO Monographs 11 (2011), superseding specifications prepared at the 31st JECFA (1987),
published in the Combined Compendium of Food Additive Specifications, FAO JECFA Monographs 1 (2005). A group ADI of 0-5 mg/kg bw for beta
carotene, synthetic and from Blakeslea trispora, was established at the 57thJECFA (2001).
SYNONYMS CI Food Orange 5; INS No. 160a(i); CI (1975) No. 40800
DEFINITION These specifications apply to synthetic β-carotene which consists predominantly of all-trans-β-carotene. Synthetic β-carotene may also
contain minor amounts of cis-isomers and other carotenoids such as alltrans-retinal, β-apo-12’-carotenal, and β-apo-10’-carotenal. Commercial
preparations of β-carotene intended for use in food are prepared from β-carotene meeting these specifications and are formulated as suspensions
in edible oils or water-dispersible powders. These preparations may have different ratio of trans/cis isomers.
Chemical names ß-Carotene, ß,ß-carotene 1,1'-(3,7,12,16-tetramethyl-1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15,17-octadecanonaene-1,18-diyl)bis[2,6,6-trimethylcyclohexene]
C.A.S. number 7235-40-7
Chemical formula C40H56
Formula weight 536.88
Assay Not less than 96% total colouring matters, expressed as ß-carotene.
DESCRIPTION Red to brownish-red crystals or crystalline powder; sensitive to oxygen and light and should therefore be kept in a light-resistant container under inert gas.
FUNCTIONAL USES Colour
