Beta-Carotin ist ein natürlicher Farbstoff, der in vielen Früchten und Gemüsesorten vorkommt, insbesondere in solchen mit orange, rot oder gelb gefärbten Früchten und Gemüse.
Beta Carotene is often used in the food industry as a colorant. Beta carotene is approved as a colorant under the designation E160a. This is used, for example, for margarine, sweets or confectionery. Even small amounts of the dye already colors food yellow orange.
Many people wonder which foods contain large amounts of beta carotene. Beta carotene can be found in many foods. The carotenoids are synthesized exclusively by plants and are found primarily only in plant foods. In animal products, beta carotene is only present as an additive.
Smokers should not take supplements with a high beta carotene content. The reason for this is that beta carotene can greatly increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment therefore recommends smokers to refrain from consuming vitamin preparations with beta carotene and drinks.
Many people wonder how much vitamin A is contained in carrots. In plant foods is the precursor of vitamin A. It is also called beta-carotene. Per 100 grams of carrots are about 1637 μg beta-carotene.