E120

E120 is the European food additive code for carmine, a natural red coloring derived from the crushed bodies of certain cochineal insects, primarily female Dactylopius coccus and related species. The pigment consists mainly of carminic acid and related compounds and can be supplied as a water-soluble dye or as a carmine lake, where the dye is precipitated with an inert binder such as aluminum or calcium for improved stability.

Carmine is widely used to color a variety of foods and beverages, including candies, yogurts, ice creams, fruit juices, jams, and baked goods. It provides a bright red to crimson hue and is relatively stable to heat and light, though the shade can change with pH or metal ions in the product.

Regulatory status and labeling vary by jurisdiction. In the European Union, E120 is an approved food colorant and must be listed on ingredient labels, typically as “E120,” “carmine,” “cochineal extract,” or “carminic acid.” In the United States, carmine is permitted as a color additive and must be declared on labels. Some products disclose the insect origin to help consumers avoid it for ethical, religious, or dietary reasons.

Safety considerations include rare allergic reactions, including hypersensitivity and, in extreme cases, anaphylaxis. Comprehensive reviews have found no general carcinogenic or genotoxic risk associated with typical use, but individuals with known allergies to carmine or cochineal should avoid it. Consumers may seek vegan or allergen-free alternatives, such as plant-based colorants like beetroot extract (E162) or paprika-based pigments, depending on tolerance and labeling.