Cochineal(E124)
Level 5 — High concernIn Winter's Dictionary
Cochineal is a colorant — Deep crimson dye from female cochineal insects
Also: Ponceau Red 4R
What it does
Deep crimson dye from female cochineal insects
Where you'll see it
Candy, yogurt, fruit drinks, scarlet/orange/red tints
What the research says
Azo dye that may elicit intolerance in salicylate-allergic people. Histamine liberator may intensify asthma. Considered carcinogenic in USA, Norway, Finland. Possible cause of hyperactivity. Can cause life-threatening allergic reactions per University of Michigan researchers. Often listed as 'natural'.
Regulatory status
- US FDA: BAN
- EU: approved
- Notes: Banned by FDA; Ponceau 4R considered carcinogenic in USA, Norway, Finland; FDA has seized Chinese-produced haw flakes for containing it
Sources
- A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): Ponceau 4R is considered carcinogenic in some countries, including the USA, Norway, and Finland, and it is currently listed as a banned substance by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration