Anthocyanins are a group of antioxidants found in red, purple, and blue fruits and vegetables. They belong to the flavonoid family — the same family as the antioxidants found in wine, tea, and dark chocolate. Anthocyanins extracted from plants are also commonly used as dyes, natural food colorants, and food additives. For instance, the commercial additive E163 is most commonly derived from grape skin and used to add a purple color to jam, candies, and beverages.
