Is Lutein (E161b) Vegan?

Vegan status: Depends on Source

E-number: E161b

Also known as: Xanthophyll, Vegetable lutein, Egg lutein

Source

Found in green leafy vegetables, marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta), and egg yolks. Commercial lutein used as a food colorant is predominantly extracted from marigold petals [vegan]. Egg-derived lutein exists but is mainly used in pharmaceutical/supplement contexts.

Commonly found in

Yellow colouring in some pastas, sauces, and confectionery. Also extensively used as a dietary supplement for eye health (macular degeneration prevention).

Vegan alternative: Marigold-derived lutein is the commercial standard and is vegan. Check supplement labels specifically.

Notes

Lutein has two distinct markets: food colouring (almost always marigold-derived and vegan) and eye health supplements (may be egg-derived in some products). Always check supplement labels — many specify 'marigold-derived' explicitly. The distinction matters because egg-yolk lutein is used in poultry feed to colour egg yolks, while marigold lutein is farmed as a dedicated crop.