What is E124?
E124 is Ponceau 4R — a synthetic red dye linked to hyperactivity — banned in the US and warning-labelled in the EU.
What is E124 (Ponceau 4R)?
E124 is the E-number for ponceau 4r, 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. Ponceau 4R is one of the 'Southampton Six' colours, is banned in the United States, and requires a hyperactivity warning label in the EU. Like every E-number, E124 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E124 in detail below.
Where is E124 found?
E124 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 (E124) or by its full name, ponceau 4r. Common foods that may contain E124 include:
- Tinned strawberries
- Sweets
- Cake decorations
- Salami casing
- Soft drinks
Full guide: foods containing E124 and how to spot it on labels →
E124 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Ponceau 4R safe?
Is E124 safe?
E124 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. Ponceau 4R is one of the 'Southampton Six' colours linked to hyperactivity in some children: in the EU and UK, foods containing it must carry the warning 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children'. For most people, normal dietary exposure to E124 is not considered harmful.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — acceptable daily intake (ADI) or conditions of use apply
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E124 vegan?
E124 is vegan. A synthetic azo dye, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E124 →Is E124 halal?
E124 is halal. A synthetic azo dye, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E124 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E124 in food?
E124 is Ponceau 4R — a synthetic red dye linked to hyperactivity — banned in the US and warning-labelled in the EU.
Is E124 safe to eat?
E124 is approved at regulated levels in the EU, UK and US, but some concerns exist — see the safety section above. Most people can consume it in normal amounts without harm.
Is E124 vegan?
E124 is vegan. A synthetic azo dye, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E124 halal?
E124 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
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).