What is E123?
E123 is Amaranth — a synthetic red dye banned in the United States since 1976 but still permitted in limited uses in the EU.
What is E123 (Amaranth)?
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.
Where is E123 found?
E123 is typically used in sweets, soft drinks, desserts, ice cream, sauces and snacks. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E123) or by its full name, amaranth. Common foods that may contain E123 include:
- Caviar and fish roe (EU)
- Some aperitif drinks
- Historically: sweets and drinks
Full guide: foods containing E123 and how to spot it on labels →
E123 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Amaranth Dye safe?
Is E123 safe?
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
Is E123 vegan?
E123 is vegan. A synthetic azo dye, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E123 →Is E123 halal?
E123 is halal. A synthetic azo dye, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E123 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E123 in food?
E123 is Amaranth — a synthetic red dye banned in the United States since 1976 but still permitted in limited uses in the EU.
Is E123 safe to eat?
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 E123 vegan?
E123 is vegan. A synthetic azo dye, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E123 halal?
E123 is halal. A synthetic azo dye, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
This section contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Concerned about food additives?
Food Intolerance Test
Find out exactly which ingredients affect you with a home food intolerance test.
Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).