Lutein
AntioxidantsColorants
Safety rating
Eat Away!
Eat Away!Generally SafeUse SparinglyAvoid
Purpose and Function
Lutein is a natural yellow carotenoid pigment from green leafy vegetables and yellow/orange fruits, used as a natural colorant in beverages, dairy, confectionery, and processed foods, and valued in supplements for eye health.
Commonly found in
- —Fruit juices and smoothies
- —Butter, margarine, and cheese
- —Candies and jellies
- —Eye-health dietary supplements
Key functions
- —Provides a natural yellow-orange color
- —Supports retinal function and eye health as an antioxidant
Potential Risks and Side Effects
- 01Extremely high intake may cause carotenodermia, a harmless reversible yellow-orange skin tint
- 02No known allergic reactions reported
- 03Associated with reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration