Carmine is permitted with proper declaration in European Union: declare as "cochineal (E120) or carminic acid (E120)" in the ingredient list.
Carmine (E120, cochineal extract) is a natural deep-red pigment extracted from cochineal insects, used in yoghurts, drinks, sweets, and cosmetics. In European Union, Carmine is regulated under FIC Regulation 1169/2011 as a food coloring. Must be declared in the ingredient list. The insect-derived origin is implicit in the name. Vegan/vegetarian products cannot contain carmine — check product claims against ingredient content.
LabelGuard scans your label for Carmine and all its common names (Cochineal, Natural Red 4, Carminic acid, CI Natural Red 4) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under EU rules.
Start Your Compliance CheckCarmine (E120, cochineal extract) is a natural deep-red pigment extracted from cochineal insects, used in yoghurts, drinks, sweets, and cosmetics. It commonly appears in: Strawberry yoghurt, Red fruit juices, Pink grapefruit drinks, Maraschino cherries, Red-tinted meat products.
Carmine is safe for most consumers, but it is one of the few food colours known to cause genuine allergic reactions, including rare anaphylaxis, which is why the FDA has required it to be named explicitly on US labels since 2011. Because it is insect-derived, it is not suitable for vegetarian, vegan, halal, or kosher positioning.
Declare as "cochineal (E120) or carminic acid (E120)" in the ingredient list. Must be declared in the ingredient list. The insect-derived origin is implicit in the name. Vegan/vegetarian products cannot contain carmine — check product claims against ingredient content.
Carmine may appear under the following names: Cochineal, Natural Red 4, Carminic acid, CI Natural Red 4, E120, Crimson Lake. Common hidden sources include: Strawberry yoghurt, Red fruit juices, Pink grapefruit drinks, Maraschino cherries, Red-tinted meat products, Some wines.
Requires mandatory warnings in: US.
Last updated: 2026-07-20
Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.
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