Description
Paprika Oleoresin 120,000 CU: The Industrial Standard for Natural Red Pigmentation
Are you struggling to maintain consistent, vibrant red hues in your formulations without resorting to synthetic dyes? Paprika Oleoresin 120,000 CU is the professional-grade answer.
Derived from premium Capsicum annuum, this oil-soluble extract offers a standardized pigment punch that raw powders simply can’t match. Whether you’re perfecting a signature sauce, curing premium meats, or formulating a clean-label cosmetic line, our 120,000 CU extract ensures every batch is as visually stunning as the last.
Description: Paprika oleoresin, also known as paprika extract, is a natural, oil-soluble extract derived from the fruits of Capsicum annuum (the same peppers used to make paprika powder). It’s primarily used as a coloring and/or flavoring agent in food products, but also finds applications in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Oleoresins are semi-solid extracts composed of a resin in solution in an essential and/or fatty oil, obtained by evaporation of the solvent(s) used for their production.
Compared to conventional paprika powder, this oleoresin delivers:
• Higher color strength
• Better formulation control
• Longer shelf life
• Improved dispersion in oil-based systems
This makes it a preferred choice for manufacturers seeking precision and consistency in product development.
What is Paprika Oleoresin 120,000 CU?
Paprika Oleoresin is a concentrated natural extract obtained from dried red paprika peppers. With a color value of 120,000 CU, it delivers powerful pigmentation using natural carotenoids like capsanthin and capsorubin.
Unlike traditional paprika powder, this oleoresin provides:
• Precise color control
• Better solubility in oils
• Longer shelf life
• Consistent performance in industrial use
In paprika oleoresin, “CU” stands for Color Units. It’s a measure of the pigment concentration and intensity of the red color in the oleoresin, primarily due to carotenoid compounds like capsanthin and capsorubin.
Different paprika oleoresin products are available with varying CU values, typically ranging from 20,000 CU to 100,000 CU or even higher, depending on the desired color intensity for specific applications (e.g., food coloring in processed meats, sauces, snacks, or even animal feed).
A higher CU value indicates a more concentrated and vibrant red color. So, 120,000 CU in paprika oleoresin means it’s a very highly concentrated and intensely colored product.
CU Value Comparison
| CU Level | Strength | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| 20,000–40,000 | Low | Seasonings |
| 60,000–80,000 | Medium | Sauces |
| 120,000 | High | Processed foods, cosmetics |
| 160,000+ | Very High | Industrial use |
CU TO ASTA CONVERSION CHART
How to convert Paprika CU to ASTA?
For B2B buyers transitioning from powder to liquid extract, use this conversion guide:
| Color Units (CU) | ASTA Value (Approx) | Intensity Level |
| 40,000 CU | 1,000 ASTA | Standard |
| 80,000 CU | 2,000 ASTA | High |
| 120,000 CU | 3,000 ASTA | Professional/Industrial |
| 160,000 CU | 4,000 ASTA | Ultra-Concentrate |
Technical Specifications
- Color Value: 120,000 CU
- Appearance: Deep red viscous liquid
- Solubility: Oil-soluble
- Source: Capsicum annuum
- Active Compounds: Carotenoids (capsanthin, capsorubin)
- Shelf Life: 12–24 months
- Storage: Cool, dry, away from light
- Botanical Name:Â Capsicum Annuum
- Plant Part: Fruit
- Processing Method: Solvent Extraction
- Odor and Appearance: A viscous, deep red colored liquid with a pungent top note.
- Country of origin: India
TECHNICAL DATA SHEET (TDS) & SPECIFICATIONS
| Parameter | Specification | Method/Standard |
| Color Value | 120,000 CU (Color Units) | MS 1259 / ISO 7541 |
| ASTA Equivalent | ~3000 ASTA Units | Conversion: CU / 40 |
| Appearance | Deep Red Viscous Liquid | Organoleptic |
| Solubility | 100% Oil Soluble | Laboratory Test |
| E-Number | E160c | EU Food Additive Regs |
| Residual Solvent | < 20 ppm | GC Analysis |
| Heavy Metals | Lead < 2ppm, Arsenic < 1ppm | ICP-MS |
How Paprika Oleoresin is Made
The production process ensures maximum retention of color and active compounds:
Step-by-Step Extraction
- Selection of high-quality paprika pods
- Drying and grinding
- Solvent extraction (hexane/ethanol)
- Removal of solvent under controlled conditions
- Standardization to 120,000 CU
This process results in a highly concentrated and stable extract suitable for industrial applications.
APPLICATION & DOSAGE GUIDE
To achieve optimal results, we recommend the following starting dosages. Always perform a bench test as fat content in your base will affect color expression.
-
Processed Meats (Sausages/Pepperoni): 0.05% – 0.2% by weight.
-
Snack Seasonings/Oil Slurries: 0.1% – 0.5% depending on desired “pop.”
-
Cosmetic Formulations (Lip Balms/Soaps): 0.5% – 2% for deep red hues.
-
Sauces & Dressings: 0.02% – 0.1% for a natural “sun-ripened” look.
Common Uses:Â
- Food Industry: Used as a coloring agent primarily, flavoring and spice in sauces, seasonings, and processed foods to add slight heat and color.
- Common Uses
- Processed meats (sausages, salami)
- Dairy products (cheese, butter)
- Snack seasonings
- Sauces, soups, and marinades
- Why Food Manufacturers Prefer It
- Uniform color distribution
- Heat stability during processing
- Clean-label ingredient appeal
- Common Uses
- Cosmetics and Personal Care: Incorporated in products for its warming properties and as a natural preservative.
- Typical Uses
- Lipsticks and lip balms
- Creams and lotions
- Herbal skincare products
- Benefits in Cosmetics
- Natural alternative to synthetic dyes
- Safe and skin-friendly
- Provides warm red-orange tones
- Typical Uses
- Pharmaceuticals: Used in topical analgesics for pain relief and in formulations for its potential health benefits.
- Functional Benefits
- Supports immune health
- Helps reduce oxidative stress
- Used in dietary supplements
- Functional Benefits
- Nutritional Supplements: Added for its metabolism-boosting effects and as a natural appetite suppressant.
- Culinary Applications: Used by chefs and food enthusiasts to enhance dishes with heat and flavor in cooking and gourmet sauces.
- Animal Feeds: Paprika oleoresin is commonly used in poultry feed to enhance visual quality.
- Key Benefits
- Improves egg yolk color
- Enhances feed appeal
- Natural and safe additive
- Key Benefits
NOTE: Our Paprika Oleoresin will have negligible amount of heat and is primarily recommended to be used as a natural coloring agent.
Key Benefits of Paprika Oleoresin 120,000 CU
1. Natural Coloring Solution
Provides vibrant color without synthetic additives.
2. High Efficiency
Requires lower dosage compared to powders.
3. Consistent Performance
Ensures uniform results across batches.
4. Extended Shelf Life
More stable than raw spice powders.
5. Versatile Applications
Suitable for multiple industries.
Paprika Oleoresin vs Paprika Powder
| Feature | Oleoresin | Powder |
|---|---|---|
| Color Consistency | High | Variable |
| Shelf Life | Long | Moderate |
| Solubility | Oil-based | Limited |
| Precision | Accurate | Less precise |
| Industrial Use | Excellent | Limited |
Quality & Safety Standards
Paprika Oleoresin 120,000 CU is generally recognized as safe when used within recommended limits. Our Paprika Oleoresin is produced in facilities adhering to ISO 22000 and HACCP standards.
-
FDA Status: Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) under 21 CFR 73.340.
-
EU Status: Fully compliant with Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 (E160c).
-
Clean Label: Non-GMO, Hexane-Free extraction available, and free from synthetic antioxidants like BHA/BHT.
Safety Highlights
• Food-grade compliant
• Low solvent residue
• Free from harmful additives
• Manufactured under controlled conditions
How to Choose the Right Paprika Oleoresin
Selecting high-quality oleoresin is crucial for performance.
Buying Checklist
• Verify color value (120,000 CU)
• Check purity and absence of contaminants
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards
• Request COA from supplier
Pro Tip
Always test small batches before large-scale use to ensure compatibility with your formulation.
Packaging Options
We offer flexible packaging solutions to meet different business needs:
• Bulk industrial containers
• Drums and cans
• Custom packaging available
Storage & Handling Guidelines
Proper storage ensures maximum shelf life and product performance.
Storage Tips
• Keep in airtight containers
• Store in a cool, dry place
• Avoid direct sunlight
• Ideal temperature: 15–25°C
Frequently Asked Questions
What is paprika oleoresin used for?
It is mainly used as a natural colorant in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Does it add flavor or spice?
It has mild flavor but is primarily used for color.
What does 120,000 CU mean?
It indicates high color strength, suitable for industrial applications.
Is it spicy?
No—this product is primarily used for color, not heat.
Is it better than synthetic colors?
Yes, it offers a clean-label, natural alternative.
How long does it last?
Typically 12–24 months under proper storage conditions.
Is Paprika Oleoresin 120,000 CU water-soluble?
No, this specific 120,000 CU extract is oil-soluble. It is designed to blend seamlessly into fats, oils, and dry carriers. For water-based applications, please contact our technical team for an emulsified version.
Does 120,000 CU Paprika Extract add heat to food?
Our extract is processed to maximize color (Capsanthin) while minimizing pungency (Capsaicin). It provides the visual appeal of paprika without the “burn,” making it ideal for mild formulations.
How do I store this product to prevent color fading?
Store in a cool (below 20°C), dry place in the original airtight container. Exposure to direct sunlight or high heat will cause the carotenoids to oxidize and fade.
Why Choose Our Paprika Oleoresin?
• Premium-grade raw material sourcing
• High color consistency and purity
• Reliable supply chain
• Competitive pricing for bulk orders
• Technical support available
Contraindications: Paprika oleoresin is oil-soluble and not suitable for water-based products without emulsifiers. Its color degrades with heat, light, and over time, limiting stability. It may also impart unwanted flavor or vary in pigment strength across batches. Its active compounds can provide health benefits, yet they may also cause irritation or discomfort in sensitive individuals. Although it is a natural preservative, excessive use can lead to digestive issues. Lastly, while it enhances culinary creations, it may not blend well with all flavor profiles..
For large quantities please contact us via our phone number or through the Contact Us page.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.*
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