Not yet rated
Safety assessments compiled from FDA, EFSA, FSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies. This information is for educational purposes — consult a healthcare professional for dietary advice.
Cochineal / Carminic Acid
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Data sourced from WHO JECFA, FDA, EFSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Cochineal / Carminic Acid (E120) is rated "Not Yet Rated" according to current evidence. It is approved in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).
On This Page
What is Cochineal / Carminic Acid?
Red color derived from insects
Cochineal / Carminic Acid is classified as a Color additive. It is currently approved in all major regulatory markets.
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
ApprovedUS name: Cochineal / Carmine
Must be listed by name on US labels since 2011. Allergenic
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
ApprovedRed color derived from insects
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EU pre-BrexitUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
ApprovedJapanese: コチニール色素
Approved. Must be labeled
🇨🇦 CanadaCA
ApprovedGenerally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
ApprovedGenerally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.
🇮🇳 India
ApprovedWidely approved internationally. Regulated by FSSAI.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Japanese standards. Regulated by MFDS.
🇧🇷 Brazil
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
ApprovedPermitted under GB 2760 national standard.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
Expert Analysis
Cochineal / Carminic Acid is classified as a color in the food additive regulatory framework. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Cochineal / Carminic Acid safe?
Cochineal / Carminic Acid has a safety rating of "Not Yet Rated". Not yet rated
Is Cochineal / Carminic Acid vegan?
Cochineal / Carminic Acid is NOT vegan as it is derived from animal/insect sources.
Is Cochineal / Carminic Acid banned in Europe?
No, Cochineal / Carminic Acid is Approved in the EU.
What is Cochineal / Carminic Acid made from?
Red color derived from insects
Did You Know?
Carmine/cochineal red dye (E120) is made from crushed cochineal insects. It takes about 70,000 insects to produce one pound of dye.
Weekly Ingredient Alert
Get weekly updates on food additive news, regulatory changes, and safety alerts.
Recommended Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cochineal / Carminic Acid safe?
Is Cochineal / Carminic Acid banned in any country?
What is Cochineal / Carminic Acid used for?
Sources & References
Regulatory data for Cochineal / Carminic Acid is sourced from the following agencies:
- FDA: Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS)
- EFSA: Food Additives Database
- FSA: Approved Additives and E Numbers
- MHLW: Standards for Use of Food Additives
- Health Canada: Lists of Permitted Food Additives
- FSANZ: Food Additives
- FSSAI: Food Safety and Standards
- MFDS: Food Additives Standards
- ANVISA: Food Additives Legislation
- GB 2760: National Food Safety Standard
- WHO JECFA: International Safety Evaluations
- CSPI: Chemical Cuisine — Food Additive Safety Ratings
Often Found Together
Other additives with the same safety rating from different categories
Related Searches
People also ask:
Want Additive-Free Food?
Explore organic food delivery services that prioritize clean ingredients.
Explore Clean Food Options →