Lutein (E 161b)

Last reviewed October 19, 2026

In plain words: Lutein (E 161b) is a yellow carotenoid color, usually extracted from marigold (Tagetes) flowers. It is used to color foods such as drinks, dairy products and sweets.

Also listed on labels as: Lutein, Tagetes extract (lutein), E161b, INS 161b(i)

What do regulators say?

• EU: EFSA re-evaluated lutein (E 161b) as a food additive in 2010 (doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2010.1678, checked 2026-10-19).
• US: "Tagetes (Aztec marigold) meal and extract" is listed at 21 CFR 73.295, for chicken feed only (eCFR; FDA Color Additive Status List end note 1, checked 2026-10-19).

Published research: what individual studies found

These are findings from individual published studies and food-safety agency opinions, credited to each paper. Each one is labeled by type of evidence. They do not change any verdict, evidence grade or score on this site.

Evidence type: EFSA re-evaluation (2010)

• EFSA (2010) estimated that, at current use levels (Tier 3), intake of lutein (E 161b) by the highest consumers may exceed the ADI (1 mg/kg bw/day) at the upper end of the range. The ADI applies to a specific Tagetes-derived lutein.
• About the ADI: An ADI is a safety benchmark with a built-in margin. An estimate above it is not a measured intake and doesn't mean harm has occurred.
• Source: EFSA ANS Panel, EFSA J, 2010 · doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2010.1678

For information only, not medical advice. Studies are cited to their authors' published papers; the researchers aren't affiliated with and don't endorse Let Me Scan That or any product. A study link doesn't mean an ingredient causes harm. Report an error

Related guides

• Food Dyes and Colors: A Calm Guide for Families
• Annatto (E 160b)

Sources

1. EFSA ANS Panel, Re-evaluation of lutein (E 161b), EFSA J, 2010. Link
2. eCFR, 21 CFR 73.295 Tagetes (Aztec marigold) meal and extract. Link
3. FDA, Color Additive Status List. Link

This page is for general education. It is not medical advice and does not replace advice from your doctor, pediatrician, allergist or registered dietitian. Research changes; we review these pages when new evidence or rules come out. Last reviewed October 19, 2026.