Analysis of Paprika Extract Color in Cheeze It Original Snack Crackers

Paprika extract color, also known as Capsanthin, is a natural food coloring agent derived from the peppers of the Capsicum annuum plant. It is used for coloring purposes in a variety of foods, including the Cheeze It Original Snack Crackers. In terms of nutritional value, paprika extract color does not contribute significantly. It is used in such minimal quantities in foods that its vitamin or mineral content is virtually negligible. Its primary function is to provide a natural red or orange color to food. From a health perspective, paprika extract color is generally deemed as safe. According to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), several toxicity studies have shown that paprika oleoresin (a substance similar to paprika extract color) is not linked with any data suggesting that it has harmful effects on humans. Moreover, paprika extract is stated to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which are beneficial to our health. However, these benefits are most likely to be obtained when consuming the spice in measurable quantities, not the small amounts used as food colorant in processed foods like Cheeze It Original Snack Crackers. In conclusion, Paprika Extract Color doesn't significantly contribute to the nutritional value when used as a colorant in processed foods. Its potential health benefits are most likely negligible due to the minute quantities used. Nevertheless, it doesn't appear to pose significant health risks either. Accordingly, for the purposes of this evaluation, the nutritional score would be: This low score reflects the lack of significant nutritional value contributed by paprika extract color, but it does not indicate that the ingredient is harmful or unhealthy—it simply does not add significant nutrients.