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Ingredients / Flavors & colors / Lutein
Flavors & colors
Lutein (E 161b)
Lutein for U.S. manufacturers, from vetted producers. FCC / USP grade on request. Download the sample spec sheet, then send us your grade and quantity.
TRACED · CERTIFIED · RELIABLE · TRANSPARENT · TESTED
Key facts
| CAS No. | 127-40-2 |
|---|---|
| E-number (EU) | E 161b |
| Synonyms | Mixed Carotenoids, Xanthophylls |
| Chemical formula | C40H56O2 |
| Molecular weight | 568,88 |
| Description | Dark, yellowish brown liquid |
| Grades | EU Reg. 231/2012 (E 161b) sample spec · FCC / USP available on request for U.S. food/pharma use |
| Origin | Confirmed in every offer; stated per lot on the COA |
| Storage, shelf life, packaging | Per the producer's specification, on request |
What lutein is
Lutein is obtained by solvent extraction of the strains of edible fruits and plants, grass, lucerne (alfalfa) and Tagetes erecta. The main colouring principle consists of carotenoids of which lutein and its fatty acid esters account for the major part. Formula C40H56O2, molecular weight 568,88. Dark, yellowish brown liquid. (Source: EU Regulation 231/2012, E 161b.)
Applications by industry
Sample specification
Values from EU Regulation 231/2012 (E 161b), consolidated text of 18.08.2026. Actual values depend on the producer; the producer's specification and the COA for your lot are available on request.
| Assay | Content of total colouring matter not less than 4 % calculated as lutein |
|---|---|
| Solvent residues | Acetone |
| Arsenic | Not more than 3 mg/kg |
| Lead | Not more than 3 mg/kg |
| Mercury | Not more than 1 mg/kg |
| Cadmium | Not more than 1 mg/kg |
Download the full spec sheet (PDF)
Documents and sourcing
Droplet promise. Origin confirmed in every offer. Sample lot record on request, from the producer. SDS, allergen and other statements on request. We work with vetted producers and give you access to U.S.- and EU-stocked material through our partner network.
Data sheet, SDS and COA on request. Every delivery ships with a COA linked to the delivered lot.
Questions buyers ask
What is lutein used for?
Typical uses by industry. Food & beverage: Color for foods and beverages. Suitability for your product and market is confirmed with the producer's specification.
Which grades can McBoeck supply?
Food grade to EU Regulation 231/2012 (E 161b). FCC / USP grade is available on request for U.S. food and pharma use. Particle size and other grade details follow the producer's specification, on request.
Which documents come with lutein?
Every delivery ships with a COA linked to the delivered lot. Origin confirmed in every offer. Sample lot record on request, from the producer. SDS, allergen and other statements on request.
What does the sample spec sheet show?
Limits for assay, solvent residues, arsenic, lead, mercury and cadmium, taken from EU Regulation 231/2012. Actual values depend on the producer; the producer's specification and the lot COA are available on request.
How do I get a quote?
Send us the grade, quantity and delivery location through the quote form or at [email protected]. We work with vetted producers and give you access to U.S.- and EU-stocked material through our partner network.
Related flavors & colors
Benzyl AlcoholDisodium Inosinate, IMPDisodium Ribonucleotides, I+GAll flavors & colors
Need lutein?
Send us the grade, quantity and delivery location. Email [email protected] or call +1 (713) 766-6811.