PAPRIKA E160c is obtained from sweet red peppers (Capsicum annuum) using a solvent extraction process to prepare an oleoresin. Paprika is well recognized as a spice and it is a popular ingredient of many recipe dishes.

The extract contains principally two carotenoid pigments, capsanthin and capsorubin. Both pigments are oil soluble and provide a rich orange/red hue depending upon the concentration used. When used for coloring purposes, paprika extracts invariably contribute a spicy flavor and they are generally more suited to either savoury or lightly colored products. Although sensitive to oxidation these pigments are stable to heat and are unaffected by changes of pH.