Not yet rated
Astaxanthin
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Astaxanthin (E161j) is rated "Not Yet Rated" according to current evidence. It is approved in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).
On This Page
What is Astaxanthin?
Red carotenoid from algae/shrimp. Used in salmon farming. Not in EU food color list but approved in some countries
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
Check FDA database🇪🇺 European UnionEU
NOT APPROVEDRed carotenoid from algae/shrimp. Used in salmon farming. Not in EU food color list but approved in some countries
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EU pre-BrexitUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW database🇨🇦 CanadaCA
Check Health CanadaVerify with Health Canada's permitted food additives list.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
Likely restrictedMay follow EU restrictions. Check FSANZ Schedule 15.
🇮🇳 India
May be restrictedCheck FSSAI regulations. India follows Codex Alimentarius guidelines.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
May be restrictedCheck MFDS (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety).
🇧🇷 Brazil
Status variesCheck ANVISA (National Health Surveillance Agency).
🇨🇳 China
May be restrictedChina has independent standards. Check GB 2760.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
Expert Analysis
Astaxanthin is classified as a color in the food additive regulatory framework. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Astaxanthin safe?
Astaxanthin has a safety rating of "Not Yet Rated". Not yet rated
Is Astaxanthin vegan?
Astaxanthin is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Astaxanthin banned in Europe?
No, Astaxanthin is NOT APPROVED in the EU.
What is Astaxanthin made from?
Red carotenoid from algae/shrimp. Used in salmon farming. Not in EU food color list but approved in some countries
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Astaxanthin safe?
Is Astaxanthin banned in any country?
What is Astaxanthin used for?
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