Cochineal carmine
Learn what Cochineal carmine (E120) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Cochineal carmine?
E 120 is a natural food coloring from animal origin, specifically derived from the cochineal insect. It imparts a red color and can be used alone or in combination with other colorants.
Why is Cochineal carmine added to food?
Cochineal carmine (E120) is a colorant commonly found in: Membranes, coatings, and decorations for meat products. Aged and processed cheeses..
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake (ADI) for human consumption is up to 5 mg/kg body weight. No known secondary effects at the concentrations used in food.
Is Cochineal carmine safe?
Low concern
Carmine and cochineal extract can be used safely for food coloring when used within good manufacturing practices and within the recommended quantities.
Is Cochineal carmine banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Cochineal carmine okay for kids?
This additive is not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Cochineal carmine
- Membranes
- coatings
- and decorations for meat products. Aged and processed cheeses.
How to spot Cochineal carmine on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E120
- Cochineal carmine
Common misspellings to watch for:
- cochlneal carmine
- cochineal earmine
- cochineal cdrmine
- cochineal carmine
- cochinedl carmine
- coehineal carmine
- cochineal carmlne
- eochineal carmine
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to food colorants, such as skin rashes, itching, or difficulty breathing. • Not recommended for individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions to animal-derived products. • Avoid large quantities during pregnancy and breastfeeding, without consulting a doctor. • May interfere with asthma medication, increasing the risk of asthma attacks.
Also known as
- cochlneal carmine
- cochineal earmine
- cochineal cdrmine
- cochineal carmine
- cochinedl carmine
- coehineal carmine
- cochineal carmlne
- eochineal carmine
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Cochineal carmine? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E120 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Cochineal carmine
- Is Cochineal carmine safe to eat?
- Carmine and cochineal extract can be used safely for food coloring when used within good manufacturing practices and within the recommended quantities.
- Is Cochineal carmine banned anywhere?
- Cochineal carmine is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Cochineal carmine safe for children?
- This additive is not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Cochineal carmine on a food label?
- Look for E120, Cochineal carmine in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: cochlneal carmine, cochineal earmine, cochineal cdrmine.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.