Cochineal
What is Cochineal?
Cochineal, also known as carmine or Natural Red 4, is a vibrant red food colouring. It is derived from the dried bodies of the female cochineal insect (Dactylopius coccus), which are native to South America and Mexico. The insects are harvested, dried, and then boiled in water to extract the carminic acid, which is then processed into a colourant.
Is Cochineal vegan?
No. Cochineal is animal-derived, so it is not vegan.
Is Cochineal gluten-free?
It is not gluten-containing.
Is Cochineal a major allergen?
Cochineal is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Cochineal used for?
Manufacturers use cochineal to impart a strong, stable red colour to a wide variety of food products.
Is Cochineal safe?
Cochineal (E120) is an authorised food additive in the UK and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use cochineal to impart a strong, stable red colour to a wide variety of food products. Its bright hue makes it popular in confectionery, such as sweets and fondants, as well as in fruit-flavoured yogurts, jellies, and some meat products. It provides a natural-looking red colour that is resistant to fading.
Health notes
Cochineal (E120) is an authorised food additive in the UK and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. EFSA has evaluated its safety and established an acceptable daily intake (ADI). While generally considered safe, cochineal has been associated with allergic reactions in a small number of individuals, with symptoms ranging from skin rashes to asthma. These reactions are rare and typically occur in people with pre-existing sensitivities.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 1.7.2 ripened cheese | 125 |
| 1.7.5 processed cheese | 100 |
| 1.7.6 cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) | 125 |
| 4.2.1 dried fruit and vegetables | 200 |
| 4.2.2 fruit and vegetables in vinegar oil or brine | 200 |
| 4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetables | 200 |
| 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote | 100 |
| 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote | 200 |
| 4.2.5 jam jellies and marmalades and similar products | 100 |
| 4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC | 100 |
| 4.2.5.3 other similar fruit or vegetable spreads | 100 |
| 6.3 breakfast cereals | 200 |
| 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 | 100 |
| 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat | No numerical limit listed |
| 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat | 200 |
| 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat | 100 |
| 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat | 50 |
| 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat products | 100 |
| 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat | No numerical limit listed |
| 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans | 100 |
| 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans | 250 |
| 14.2.7.1 Aromatised wines | 100 |
| 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinks | 100 |
Allergen info
Cochineal is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not gluten-containing.
Foods that contain Cochineal
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