Digestoa
Additive · Colour

Paprika extract (E160C)

Paprika extract (E160C) is a colour that Digestoa rates as low concern — it's considered safe at the levels used in food.

Digestoa riskNo known risk
TypeColour
Found inbrightly coloured sweets, soft drinks, breakfast cereals, snacks and desserts

What is Paprika extract?

Paprika extract (E160C) is a colour — added to give food a specific colour.

Is Paprika extract bad for you?

Paprika extract is permitted in food and Digestoa rates it as low concern. There's no strong evidence it causes harm at the levels typically used in food.

What foods contain Paprika extract?

Brightly coloured sweets, soft drinks, breakfast cereals, snacks and desserts.

Digestoa's take

You don't need to avoid Paprika extract. It's one of the more benign things on an ingredients list — worth knowing, not worth worrying about.

Safer swaps

Choose products coloured with natural extracts like beetroot (E162), paprika (E160c) or turmeric (E100).

Frequently asked questions

Is E160C the same as Paprika extract?
Yes — E160C is the international additive (E-number) code for Paprika extract.
Is Paprika extract bad for you?
Digestoa rates Paprika extract (E160C) as low concern. It's permitted in food and considered safe at normal dietary levels.
What are the side effects of Paprika extract?
No significant side effects are associated with Paprika extract at the levels used in food.
What foods contain Paprika extract?
Brightly coloured sweets, soft drinks, breakfast cereals, snacks and desserts.
How can I avoid Paprika extract?
Check the ingredients list for "Paprika extract" or "E160C", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related colour additives

Titanium dioxide (E171)Tartrazine (E102)Quinoline Yellow (E104)Sunset Yellow FCF (E110)Azorubine / Carmoisine (E122)Ponceau 4R (E124)

Risk ratings reflect Digestoa's editorial assessment synthesising EFSA/IARC opinions and peer-reviewed research. Informational only — not medical advice.