Disclaimer: This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and may change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
Cochineal
E120 | INS 120
Names & Identifiers
- E Number
- E120
- INS Number
- 120
- CAS Number
- 1260-17-9
- Scientific Name
- Carminic acid
- Japanese Name
- コチニール
- Also Known As
- Carmine, Carminic acid, CI 75470, Natural Red 4
Regulation Status by Country
European Union
Status: approved | Max level: varies by food category mg/kg
Must be labeled clearly; cannot be labeled simply as 'natural color'
United States
Status: approved | Exempt from certification
Must be specifically declared on ingredient labels
Japan
Status: approved | Category: 既存添加物
Australia / New Zealand
Status: approved | Code: 120
Canada
Status: approved
What is Cochineal?
Classification
Function: colour
Type: natural
Source: insect-derived
Natural Occurrence
A natural red dye extracted from the dried bodies of female cochineal insects, which live on prickly pear cacti.
Found in: Cochineal insects (Dactylopius coccus)
How It's Made
Method: extraction
Extracted from dried cochineal insects using aqueous ethanol or water, followed by purification. Approximately 70,000 insects are needed to produce 1 pound of dye.
Uses Beyond Food
- Cosmetics: Widely used in lipsticks, blushes, and other color cosmetics.
- Pharmaceutical: Used as a colorant in tablets and capsules.
- Industrial: Used in textile dyeing and art supplies.
Commonly Found In
Cochineal is typically used in:
Note: This list shows typical product categories and may vary by brand and region. Always check product labels for actual ingredients.
Safety Evaluations (Official)
EFSA (EU)
ADI: 5 mg/kg bw/day
Evaluated: 2015
ADI = Acceptable Daily Intake (mg per kg of body weight per day)
Research & Official Documents
Official evaluations and scientific research:
Search research databases:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cochineal (E120)?
Cochineal (E120) is a colour used in food products. It is natural and insect-derived. A natural red dye extracted from the dried bodies of female cochineal insects, which live on prickly pear cacti.
Where is Cochineal found naturally?
Cochineal is naturally found in Cochineal insects (Dactylopius coccus). A natural red dye extracted from the dried bodies of female cochineal insects, which live on prickly pear cacti.
What is the ADI for Cochineal?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Cochineal is 0–5 mg/kg bw/day as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.
What foods contain Cochineal?
Cochineal is used in various food categories including Flavoured fermented milk products, Other confectionery. It is used as a colour in these products.
Is Cochineal the same as Carmine?
Yes, Cochineal is also known as Carmine, Carminic acid, CI 75470, Natural Red 4. These are different names for the same substance.
Related Additives
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