E 163 Anthocyanins

What is E 163?

E 163 is the E number of Anthocyanins. Red to purple plant pigments, for example from grapes, elderberries or black carrots. They are used in drinks, sweets and jams.

Where is E 163 most commonly used?

Anthocyanins mainly colour fruit drinks, jams, yoghurts and confectionery red to purple. They are usually obtained from grapes, elderberries, black carrots or berries.

What is E 163 used for?

E 163 belongs to the group "Colours" and is used as colour.

• Colour: Colours add or restore colour in a food.

Which foods may contain E 163?

According to the European Commission's database, E 163 may be used in 52 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Dairy products and analogues
• Edible ices
• Fruit and vegetables
• Confectionery
• Cereals and cereal products
• Bakery wares
• Meat
• Fish and fisheries products
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
• Beverages
• Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
• Desserts
• Food supplements
• Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 163 vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 163 linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 163 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Colour: E 163" or "Colour: Anthocyanins".