E160a: Carotenes
Orange colouring. Origin: Plant or animal (varies by manufacturer).
Vegan
Depends on the source
Halal
Generally halal
The honest version
The pigment itself comes from plants or synthesis, but it is sometimes dissolved in gelatin as a carrier. The label rarely says which.
When our checker meets E160a on a label, it does not guess: products carrying ambiguous additives get a “check the label” verdict, with the ingredient named, so you can decide or ask the manufacturer.
Related additives
Classifications reflect common manufacturing practice and mainstream certifier positions; individual products and certifiers can differ. Not medical, nutritional or religious advice.