E120 - Cochineal

E120 - COCHINIGLIA, CARMINIC ACID, VARIOUS TYPES OF CARMINIUM

They are natural dyes obtained from an insect, the Cocci cacti (cochineal), which lives off a species of cactus (Napalea coccinillifera) present in Peru and the Canary Islands. The extraction of the carmine color occurs from the dried eggs of the insect (the so-called coccineal extract is then obtained) or by drying the insect directly (a more intense and brilliant shade of color is obtained). However, in both cases, the the color obtained is very stable and is used in the production of some red, purple or pink candies, in yoghurt, marzipan, jellies, ice creams, soft drinks, liqueurs, Bitter Campari, medicinal sugared almonds and cosmetics.

It is important to underline that the natural origin of a product is not always a guarantee of good tolerability by consumers. This is precisely the case of these dyes, which can cause allergic reactions in sensitive subjects ranging from skin rashes to anaphylactic shock. In the United States, some consumer associations have expressly asked the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) that carminic acid and compounds similar to it be explicitly declared on the label and that, for the protection of strict vegetarian consumers, the " animal origin. Other insects used are Porphyrophyra hamelis, Kermes ilicis, Margaroides poland And Laccifera lacquer.
The results of research on long-term side effects on the reproductive system and metabolism, however, are not yet available, but there is a risk that it may be carcinogenic; therefore, for primary prevention, the administration of cochineal dye to children is not recommended.

ADI DOSE: 5 mg per kg of body weight

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