Children are more likely to exceed the recommended daily intake of colouring lycopene, Europe’s top food scientists have said.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has warned that while, on average, the consumption of lycopene is at an acceptable level, children may be consuming more.


Lycopene is a red carotenoid that occurs naturally in various fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes.


The use of lycopene from tomatoes is permitted to colour food. However, synthetic lycopene and lycopene fermented from blakeslea trispora have not been given approval because of questions over how much should be consumed each day.


Non-alcoholic flavoured drinks are the largest potential source of lycopene in all population groups, contributing up to 66% of all lycopene intake in male adults and more than 90% in pre-school children, the EFSA said.
 
Under the Novel Foods Regulation, EFSA’s is presently carrying out an evaluation of new proposed food uses of lycopene.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Two opinions on lycopene oleoresin from tomatoes and synthetic lycopene as novel foods are likely to be adopted by EFSA this spring 2008, the agency said.

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now