Carmoisine (E122) — What You Need to Know
What Is Carmoisine?
Carmoisine is a synthetic red azo dye also known as Azorubine. Like other azo dyes, it is part of the 'Southampton Six' group identified in studies linking food colorings to hyperactivity in children. It is banned in several countries including the United States.
What Is It Used For?
Produces a deep red color in jams, jellies, candy, marzipan, and some drinks. Used as a replacement for natural red dyes in processed foods.
Safety Assessment
One of the 'Southampton Six' colorings. EU requires warning: 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.' Not approved for food use in the USA, Canada, and several other countries.
Based on current evidence, Carmoisine is rated Questionable with a score of 3/10. This is 2.8 points below the average for colorings (5.8/10). Last reviewed by regulators: 2012. A typical diet provides about 0.1% of the acceptable daily intake.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E122 or 'Carmoisine'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Carmoisine
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E122
- INS Number
- 122
- Category
- Colorings
- Origin
- Synthetic
- FDA Status
- Not approved
- EFSA Status
- Authorized (with hyperactivity warning label)
- ADI
- 4 mg/kg bw/day
- Last Review
- 2012
Related Additives
Other colorings in the same family