Capsanthin Powder 95% Paprika Extract E160c CAS 465-42-9 Natural Red Food Colorant Water Dispersible
CAPSANTHIN POWDER 95%
PAPRIKA EXTRACT E160c
Capsanthin is the principal red carotenoid pigment of the paprika fruit (Capsicum annuum L.), classified as a xanthophyll-type carotenoid. As a food colorant it carries the EU designation E160c. This product is standardized to ≥ 95% capsanthin content by HPLC, representing a high-purity natural red pigment grade. Supplied as a dark red to reddish-brown fine powder, it is suitable for use in food coloring and cosmetic applications. Capsanthin is a single, defined molecular compound (CAS 465-42-9), distinct from whole paprika oleoresin which contains additional components. This high-purity grade provides concentrated color intensity for applications requiring a potent natural red pigment.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
EVIDENCE & CERTIFICATES
1. HPLC Content Verification (≥ 95% Capsanthin)
Every batch is tested by HPLC against a certified capsanthin reference standard, confirming ≥ 95% capsanthin content. The result is reported on the batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA) as the release specification.
2. E160c Identity Confirmation (CAS 465-42-9)
The single molecular entity (C₄₀H₌₂O₃) is verified by chromatographic retention time and UV-Vis absorption profile, consistent with the EU food colorant designation E160c and distinct from whole paprika oleoresin.
3. Elemental Impurity & Microbiological Screening
Heavy metals Pb ≤ 5 ppm, arsenic As ≤ 2 ppm, and total plate count ≤ 1,000 cfu/g are verified per batch. Produced in ISO-certified facilities with full HALAL and KOSHER documentation; batch COA and MSDS are provided.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
High-Purity Natural Red Pigment — ≥ 95% Capsanthin
Standardized to ≥ 95% capsanthin by HPLC, this is a high-purity grade of the principal red carotenoid of paprika — providing concentrated color intensity for applications requiring potent natural red coloring.
Single Defined Compound — CAS 465-42-9
Capsanthin is a single molecular entity (C₄₀H₌₂O₃), distinct from whole paprika oleoresin which contains capsanthin alongside other carotenoids, fatty acids, and flavor components. This purity provides predictable coloring performance.
E160c — Approved Natural Food Colorant
Capsanthin carries the EU food colorant designation E160c, recognized internationally as a natural color additive for food products.
Natural Source — Paprika Fruit
Derived from ripe paprika fruit, the product is a naturally sourced red pigment supporting clean-label formulations.
FUNCTIONAL ROLES
1. Natural Red Food Colorant
Provides red to orange-red coloring in food and beverage products.
2. High-Potency Pigment Grade
Delivers intense color at low inclusion rates due to high purity.
3. Oil-Soluble / Carrier-Compatible Pigment
Soluble in oil systems; water-dispersible powder formats available.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS
1. Food & Beverage Coloring
Red coloring for meat products, seasonings, sauces, beverages, and confectionery.
2. Cosmetic & Personal Care
Red pigment for lip and skin care formulations.
3. Feed Coloring
Red coloration for animal feed applications.
4. Natural Color Blending
Combined with other natural pigments for custom shade development.
TECHNICAL FAQ
Q1: What is the difference between capsanthin and paprika oleoresin?
A: Paprika oleoresin is the whole solvent extract of paprika fruit — a mixture containing capsanthin, other carotenoids, fatty acids, and flavor compounds. Capsanthin 95% is a purified single compound (CAS 465-42-9) isolated from the oleoresin, providing concentrated pure pigment.
Q2: Is this product the same as capsaicin?
A: No. Capsanthin (CAS 465-42-9) is the red carotenoid pigment. Capsaicin (CAS 404-86-4) is the pungent alkaloid responsible for chili heat. They are chemically distinct compounds with different functions.
Q3: What is the correct E number for this product?
A: E160c — the EU designation for paprika extract / capsanthin as a food colorant. Note that E150 is a different colorant (caramel color) and should not be confused.





