Is E163 Vegan?
The food additive E163, better known as Anthocyanins, has raised eyebrows in the vegan community for its uses and origins. So, is E163 vegan? Let’s unravel this together.
What is E163?
E163, commonly referred to as Anthocyanins, is a group of water-soluble pigments that are responsible for the vibrant colors found in many fruits and vegetables. They belong to the flavonoid family, a group of plant metabolites thought to provide health benefits through cell signaling pathways and antioxidant effects.
What is E163 Used For?
E163 is used primarily as a colorant in food products. It offers a range of colors from red and pink to purple, depending on the pH level. You can find it in a wide variety of products, from drinks to desserts, imparting attractive colors and potentially some health benefits too.
What Food Contains E163?
You can find E163 in an array of food and drink products, including wines, jams, yogurt, candies, soft drinks, and frozen products. Also, because it’s a natural extract, you can find it in fruits like blueberries, blackcurrants, and aubergines.
What is E163 Made Of?
E163 is derived from plants. It’s extracted from fruits and vegetables that naturally have vibrant colors, such as red cabbage, blackcurrant, and elderberries, among others.
Is E163 Vegan?
Yes, E163 is vegan. It is derived from plants and does not contain any animal products or by-products. However, let’s look more closely to erase any lingering doubts.
Potential Animal Testing of E163
While E163, like many food additives, may have been tested on animals during the early stages of its development, this doesn’t classify the final product as non-vegan. The vegan status of a product or ingredient is determined by its composition and production process, not its testing methods.
Animal-Derived Ingredients in E163
E163 does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. It’s entirely plant-based, sourced from various fruits and vegetables.
Origins and Production of E163
Anthocyanins, or E163, originate from a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. The production process involves extracting the pigments from these plant sources and then purifying them for use in food and drink products. No animal products or by-products are involved in this process.
E163 in a Vegan Diet
E163 is a vegan-friendly food colorant and can be safely incorporated into a vegan diet. It’s a natural colorant and is often favored over synthetic alternatives for its potential health benefits and lower risk of causing adverse reactions.
Is E163 Safe?
As of the latest research, E163 is generally recognized as safe for consumption. That said, it’s always crucial to consume additives in moderation and aim for a balanced diet filled with a variety of whole foods.
Final Thoughts
E163, or Anthocyanins, is a vegan-friendly food colorant. Its natural origins and absence of animal-derived ingredients make it a suitable and safe choice for individuals following a vegan lifestyle. As with any additive, consumption should be done in moderation and within the context of a balanced diet.
