Is Beta-Carotene (E160a) Vegan?

Vegan status: Depends on Source

E-number: E160a

Also known as: Provitamin A, Natural orange colour

Source

Can be derived from: (1) algae, carrots, or other plant sources [vegan], (2) fermentation [vegan], or (3) extracted from fish oil in some pharmaceutical-grade formulations [not vegan]. The vast majority of commercial food-grade beta-carotene is synthetic or plant-derived.

Commonly found in

Margarine, butter substitutes, cheese, juices, soups. Also in supplements as a Vitamin A precursor.

Vegan alternative: Plant-derived or synthetic beta-carotene is the vegan option. Check supplement labels specifically.

Notes

In most food products, E160a is synthetic or algae-derived and is vegan. In supplements, verify the source as some high-dose Vitamin A supplements use fish-oil-derived beta-carotene.