Capsaicin
Learn what Capsaicin (E160C) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Capsaicin?
A natural colorant food additive, obtained from red peppers (Capsicum annuum). It gives a dark red color and is used both for coloring and flavoring purposes in amounts specified by recipes. It is commonly used in sausages, salami, and pâtés.
Why is Capsaicin added to food?
Capsaicin (E160C) is a colorant commonly found in: Flavored juices, desserts, teas.
Permitted quantity: No maximum daily intake has been established for human consumption.
Is Capsaicin safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No unwanted side effects have been reported.
Is Capsaicin banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Common foods that contain Capsaicin
- Flavored juices
- desserts
- teas
How to spot Capsaicin on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E160C
- Capsaicin
Common misspellings to watch for:
- capsaicin
- cap$aicin
- capsalcin
- capsaiein
- capsaicln
- capsdicin
- cdpsaicin
- eapsaicin
- cadsaicin
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption of capsaicin can cause gastrointestinal irritation, such as heartburn, nausea, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. • People with digestive tract conditions like stomach ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux should avoid capsaicin, as it may worsen these conditions. • It may cause allergic reactions, including skin rashes, itching, swelling, or breathing difficulties, especially in individuals sensitive to peppers or capsaicin. • Large quantities may cause inflammation of mucous membranes and skin, particularly in sensitive areas. • People with cardiovascular conditions should consume capsaicin with caution, as it can temporarily increase blood pressure.
Also known as
- capsaicin
- cap$aicin
- capsalcin
- capsaiein
- capsaicln
- capsdicin
- cdpsaicin
- eapsaicin
- cadsaicin
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Capsaicin? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E160C — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Capsaicin
- Is Capsaicin safe to eat?
- No unwanted side effects have been reported.
- Is Capsaicin banned anywhere?
- Capsaicin is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- How do I spot Capsaicin on a food label?
- Look for E160C, Capsaicin in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: capsaicin, cap$aicin, capsalcin.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.