Carmoisine
This is what the ingredient is.
Carmoisine (E122, Azorubine) is a synthetic red azo dye providing a red to maroon color.
Here is why it shows up on the label.
Used in foods requiring heat treatment as it is heat-stable. Found in jams, sweets, and cheesecakes.
Here is what food agencies say.
Not approved in US. Europe sets a suggested daily limit of about 4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. Permitted in EU with warning label.
Here is what research has found.
Southampton study included this dye. EFSA maintains approval with warning about possible behavioral effects.
Here are a few things worth knowing.
May cause allergic reactions. EU warning label required. Not permitted in US.
Sources
- EU Food Additives Regulation
- EFSA Scientific Opinion
- Southampton Study
How to read this page
We publish plain facts about this ingredient so a label is easier to read. This is not medical advice, and it is not a recommendation to buy, avoid, or use anything. For a personal health question, talk with a clinician who knows your history.