E160 (d) - Lycopene

Author: Alexander Bruni Time for reading: ~2 minutes Last Updated: January 27, 2026

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

Characteristic: Lycopene is a food coloring with red color. Large amounts of it are found in tomatoes, grapefruits and watermelons. Today is known natural E-160d, also synthetic and genetic mo

Characteristic

Lycopene is a bright red carotene, carotenoid, phytochemical and colorant that gives fruits and vegetables a red color. It is found in tomatoes, watermelons, red oranges, pink grapefruits, apricots, rose hips, guava and many other fruits and vegetables.

Today, natural E 160d is known, also synthetic and genetically modified lycopene. Due to its strong red color, lycopene is used as a food coloring - registered as E 160d and is approved for use in the United States, New Zealand and the European Union.

In North America, 85% of dietary lycopene comes from tomato products such as ketchup, tomato juice, sauce or pasta. One serving of fresh tomatoes contains between 4 and 10 milligrams of lycopene, while one glass (240 milliliters) of tomato juice provides about 20 milligrams. Heat treatment of raw tomatoes (in the preparation of tomato juice, tomato paste or ketchup) changes the lycopene in the product into a form that is easier to absorb by the body. The lycopene in the supplements is as easy to absorb by the body as the lycopene found in food.

Use

E 160d is used in food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics as a natural pigment and as one of the most powerful antioxidants. Available in a mixture with active substance concentrations of 3% and 6%. It is used in the food industry for coloring marmalades, jams, semi-finished soups, yogurts, fruit or vegetable drinks, sports and diet drinks, cereals, fats, sauces, soups and bread.

Lycopene is non-toxic. It is obtained by solvent extraction of natural varieties of red tomatoes and subsequent removal of the solvent or by synthetic means. Like all carotenoids, lycopene is tetrateric. Insoluble in water, readily soluble in chloroform.

Lycopene is found in red carrots, watermelon and papaya, but not in strawberries or cherries. Non-red foods such as asparagus and parsley
also contain lycopene. In plants, algae and other photosynthetic organisms, lycopene is an intermediate in the
biosynthesis of many carotenoids, including beta carotene, which is responsible for yellow, orange and red pigmentation,
photosynthesis and photoprotection.

Impact on humans

According to official documents, lycopene does not have an adverse effect on the human body. In addition, the substance increases potency in men. Allergic reactions have not been identified.

E 160d is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage. The supplement is safe when taken orally in appropriate amounts.

Lycopene may slow blood clotting, which may increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. It is imperative that you stop taking lycopene supplements at least 2 weeks before your planned surgery.

Pregnant and lactating women should consult a doctor before taking lycopene supplements.

E160 (d) - Lycopene

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

Characteristic

Use

Impact on humans

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