Anthocyanins
What is Anthocyanins?
Anthocyanins are a group of naturally occurring pigments found in many fruits and vegetables, giving them red, purple, and blue colours. They are extracted from sources like berries, grapes, and red cabbage using water or ethanol. These compounds are water-soluble and sensitive to pH changes.
Is Anthocyanins vegan?
Anthocyanins is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Anthocyanins a major allergen?
Anthocyanins are not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Anthocyanins used for?
Anthocyanins are used as natural food colorants to impart vibrant red, purple, and blue hues to a wide range of products.
Is Anthocyanins safe?
Anthocyanins are authorised as a food additive in the UK and are listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Anthocyanins are used as natural food colorants to impart vibrant red, purple, and blue hues to a wide range of products. They are commonly found in confectionery, baked goods, dairy products, and beverages. Their use is driven by consumer demand for natural ingredients.
Health notes
Anthocyanins are authorised as a food additive in the UK and are listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. They have been evaluated by EFSA, which has not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified). Some research suggests potential antioxidant properties, but robust evidence for specific health benefits in humans at typical dietary intakes is still developing. Evidence is mixed regarding their impact on health.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 1.7.2 ripened cheese | No numerical limit listed |
| 1.7.6 cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.1 dried fruit and vegetables | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.2 fruit and vegetables in vinegar oil or brine | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetables | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5 jam jellies and marmalades and similar products | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC | No numerical limit listed |
| 6.3 breakfast cereals | 200 |
| 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans | No numerical limit listed |
| 14.2.7.1 Aromatised wines | No numerical limit listed |
Allergen info
Anthocyanins are not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Not a major allergen.
Foods that contain Anthocyanins
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