Lycopene, paprika oleoresin, capsicum oleoresin (nightshade color additives)

What it is

Color and flavor additives derived from nightshade plants. Lycopene is the red pigment extracted from tomatoes (also occasionally synthetic, but commercial food-grade lycopene is overwhelmingly tomato-derived). Paprika oleoresin is the concentrated extract of red bell peppers. Capsicum oleoresin is the concentrated extract of hot peppers. All three are nightshades regardless of whether they appear under the "color additives" or "natural flavors" section.

Relevant concerns

• Nightshade

  All three are nightshade-derived. Often used in processed cheeses, meat products, snack seasonings, and dietary supplements as a natural coloring — common surprise source for nightshade-avoiding users.

• AIP (Autoimmune Protocol)

  All nightshades are excluded on AIP elimination, including these extract forms.