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ColourINS 120
E120
Cochineal / Carmine
What you need to know
Carmine is a deep red colour made from cochineal insects. It is a natural colour used in yoghurts, sweets, drinks and meats.
Although natural, it is a known cause of allergic reactions in a small number of people — occasionally severe — so it must be declared on the label.
It is not suitable for vegans, and some people avoid it for religious dietary reasons, because it is animal-derived.
Where it stands, by region
The same additive can be approved in one country and banned in another. This is the divergence that matters most.
| 🇦🇺AU / NZ | Approved Permitted (FSANZ Food Standards Code). |
| 🇪🇺EU | Approved Permitted (EFSA). |
| 🇺🇸US | Approved Permitted; FDA requires it to be declared as 'cochineal extract' or 'carmine' due to allergy risk. |
| 🇨🇦CA | Approved Permitted (Health Canada). |
Health evidence
How settled the science is for each area — not how dangerous. “Unknown” means not enough good studies yet.
Hyperactivity & behaviour
Unknown
Allergy & intolerance
Can trigger allergic reactions
Probable
Gut microbiome
Unknown
Metabolic effects
Unknown
Carcinogenicity
Unknown
Cardiovascular
Unknown
Carminic acid extracted from Dactylopius coccus. ADI 5 mg/kg bw/day (EFSA 2015). Recognised allergen in several jurisdictions.
Synthesis: Natural-derived (insect)ADI 5 mg/kg bw/day