Is Amaranth Dye Safe?
Amaranth Dye is the additive E123 — a synthetic red dye banned in the United States since 1976 but still permitted in limited uses in the EU.
Is Amaranth Dye safe to eat?
E123 is banned or restricted in one or more major markets. Different regulators have reviewed the evidence and reached different conclusions, so its status depends on where you live — always check the position in your own country. Amaranth was banned in the USA in 1976 following cancer concerns in animal studies, making it one of the most famous banned food dyes in the world.
EFSA status: Banned or restricted in one or more major markets
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Amaranth Dye?
E123 is the E-number for amaranth, one of the food colourings group of food additives (E100–E199). Additives in this group add or restore colour to foods and drinks. A synthetic azo dye. Amaranth was banned in the USA in 1976 following cancer concerns in animal studies, making it one of the most famous banned food dyes in the world. The 'E' in E123 stands for Europe — the number was granted under the EU additive authorisation system — but as the safety section below explains, regulators no longer agree that E123 belongs in food everywhere: it is banned or heavily restricted in at least one major market. We break down exactly where it stands, plus the vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E123, in detail below.
What foods contain Amaranth Dye?
E123 (Amaranth Dye) is typically found in:
- Caviar and fish roe (EU)
- Some aperitif drinks
- Historically: sweets and drinks
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amaranth Dye bad for you?
E123 is banned or restricted in one or more major markets, so its acceptability depends on your country's regulator — see the safety section above.
Is Amaranth Dye vegan?
E123 is vegan. A synthetic azo dye, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Amaranth Dye halal?
E123 is halal. A synthetic azo dye, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E123 (Amaranth) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).