Carmine is permitted but requires specific warning statements in United States: declare as "cochineal extract or carmine" with the required warning: Must declare "cochineal extract" or "carmine" by name — not simply as "artificial color" or "color added".
Carmine (E120, cochineal extract) is a natural deep-red pigment extracted from cochineal insects, used in yoghurts, drinks, sweets, and cosmetics. In United States, Carmine is regulated under FDCA & FSMA as a food coloring. FDA rule effective 2011: the specific source name must be declared due to reports of anaphylactic reactions. Previously allowed to hide under "artificial color".
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 mandatory warning statements under US 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 extract or carmine" in the ingredient list. A mandatory warning must also appear: Must declare "cochineal extract" or "carmine" by name — not simply as "artificial color" or "color added". FDA rule effective 2011: the specific source name must be declared due to reports of anaphylactic reactions. Previously allowed to hide under "artificial color".
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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