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.
Amaranth
E123 | INS 123
Names & Identifiers
- E Number
- E123
- INS Number
- 123
- CAS Number
- 915-67-3
- Scientific Name
- trisodium (4E)-3-oxo-4-[(4-sulfonato-1-naphthyl)hydrazinylidene]naphthalene-2,7-disulfonate
- Japanese Name
- アマランス
- Also Known As
- Red No. 2, CI 16185, Acid Red 27
Regulation Status by Country
European Union
Status: approved | Max level: varies by food category mg/kg
Restricted use; only permitted in specific foods like caviar and alcoholic drinks
United States
Status: banned
Banned since 1976 due to potential carcinogenicity concerns
Japan
Status: approved | Category: 指定添加物
Australia / New Zealand
Status: approved | Code: 123
Permitted in limited food categories
Canada
Status: banned
Not permitted in foods
What is Amaranth?
Classification
Function: colour
Type: synthetic
Source: azo dye
How It's Made
Method: chemical synthesis
Synthesized from naphthionic acid through diazotization and coupling reactions.
Uses Beyond Food
- Cosmetics: Limited use in some regions.
- Industrial: Used in textile and leather dyeing.
Commonly Found In
Amaranth 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: 0.15 mg/kg bw/day
Evaluated: 2010
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 Amaranth (E123)?
Amaranth (E123) is a colour used in food products. It is synthetic and azo dye. A synthetic red azo dye not found in nature.
Is Amaranth banned in any country?
Amaranth is banned in USA, Canada. Regulatory status varies by country. Always check with your local food regulatory authority for current information.
What is the ADI for Amaranth?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Amaranth is 0–0.15 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 Amaranth?
Amaranth is used in various food categories including Caviar and caviar substitutes. It is used as a colour in these products.
Is Amaranth the same as Red No. 2?
Yes, Amaranth is also known as Red No. 2, CI 16185, Acid Red 27. These are different names for the same substance.
Related Additives
Other colours in our database: