What is E120? Cochineal Explained
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E120 is Cochineal — a vivid red dye made by crushing and boiling female cochineal insects — around 70,000 insects per kilogram.
What is E120 (Cochineal)?
E120 is Cochineal / Carminic Acid, a food additive classified as a colour that give food its colour. A vivid red dye made by crushing and boiling female cochineal insects — around 70,000 insects per kilogram. You'll find it in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks, cake icing and many other packaged foods. Cochineal is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E120 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains. Checking for a pet? Find out if foods containing this ingredient are safe for cats.
Where is E120 found?
E120 (Cochineal) is found in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks, cake icing, jams and preserves, ready meals, desserts.
- sweets and confectionery
- soft drinks
- cake icing
- jams and preserves
- ready meals
- desserts
Also known as: Carmine · Cochineal
Is E120 safe?
EFSA has reviewed E120 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Cochineal to harm at normal dietary intakes.
EFSA opinion: Cochineal — status Safe.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E120. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Related to E120 (Cochineal)
Products relevant to this additive and your dietary choices
Natural Food Colouring
Plant-based and fruit-extract alternatives to synthetic colours.
Natural Food Dyes
Gel and powder colours from natural sources.
E120 FAQs
What is E120 in food?
E120 is Cochineal / Carminic Acid — a vivid red dye made by crushing and boiling female cochineal insects — around 70,000 insects per kilogram.
Is E120 safe to eat?
EFSA has reviewed E120 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Cochineal to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is E120 vegan?
E120 (Cochineal) is NOT vegan. It is derived from crushed cochineal insects.
Is E120 halal?
E120 (Cochineal) is generally considered HARAM or not suitable for a halal diet.
Related Colours additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA