Orceins E182
natural dye — Primarily natural.
Orcein
CAS: 1400-62-0
Factual Regulatory Reference
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 is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
What Is Orceins?
Orceins (E182) are red-purple to brown dye compounds extracted from certain lichen species (primarily Rocella tinctoria and related species), historically used as natural textile dyes and in limited food applications. In the European Union, E182 (orcein and related orchil compounds) is authorized as a food colorant for use only on the surface of certain orange varieties to enhance their appearance. The authorization is extremely narrow — restricted to surface treatment of specific citrus fruits — and does not permit internal use in foods. This additive has very limited global regulatory approval beyond the specific EU surface-application context. EFSA has reviewed orcein/orchil preparations in the context of their restricted surface application.
? Did You Know?
Orceins occurs naturally in Lichens (Roccella species) and Various lichen species. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Orceins is produced through fermentation — the same biological process used to make bread, beer, and yogurt.
Beyond food, Orceins is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Permitted but rarely used
United States (FDA)
Not permitted for food use
Japan (MHLW)
Not permitted
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Everyday Perspective
For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:
Natural Occurrence
An ancient natural purple-red dye extracted from lichens. Used historically to dye fabrics and now rarely used in foods. One of the oldest known dyes, dating back to ancient civilizations.
Manufacturing
Extracted from various lichen species through fermentation and oxidation processes. Production is limited due to slow lichen growth.
Applications Beyond Food
Historical use in cosmetics
Used as biological stain in laboratories
Textile dyeing, histological staining in microscopy