Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Azorubine / Carmoisine
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Azorubine / Carmoisine (E122) is rated "Avoid / Concerns" according to current evidence. It is restricted in the EU and banned/not approved in the US. This additive is banned or not approved in at least one major market.
On This Page
What is Azorubine / Carmoisine?
Red dye. EU warning label required
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
NOT APPROVEDUS name: Carmoisine / Azorubine
Not approved in US
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
Approved with warningRed dye. EU warning label required
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EU pre-BrexitUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW database🇨🇦 CanadaCA
Likely restrictedStatus may differ from US. Check Health Canada's List of Permitted Food Additives.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
ApprovedGenerally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.
🇮🇳 India
Check FSSAIVerify with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
Check MFDSVerify with South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
🇧🇷 Brazil
Check ANVISAVerify with Brazil's ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
May be restrictedChina has independent standards. Check GB 2760.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
This additive is banned or not approved in at least one country
Regulatory agencies in different countries may reach different conclusions about the same ingredient based on their assessment criteria, acceptable risk levels, and available evidence. Always check the latest regulations in your region.
Expert Analysis
Azorubine / Carmoisine is classified as a color in the food additive regulatory framework. Significant safety concerns have been identified, and this additive is restricted or banned in multiple markets. Notably, regulatory agencies disagree on this additive — it is approved in the EU but banned or not approved in the US. This regulatory divergence reflects different risk assessment philosophies between jurisdictions. Azorubine / Carmoisine remains one of the most debated food additives, generating significant public and scientific discussion. Consumers who prefer to follow the precautionary principle may wish to limit their intake. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Azorubine / Carmoisine safe?
Azorubine / Carmoisine has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Is Azorubine / Carmoisine vegan?
Azorubine / Carmoisine is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Azorubine / Carmoisine banned in Europe?
No, Azorubine / Carmoisine is Approved with warning in the EU.
What is Azorubine / Carmoisine made from?
Red dye. EU warning label required
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Azorubine / Carmoisine safe?
Is Azorubine / Carmoisine banned in any country?
What is Azorubine / Carmoisine used for?
Often Found Together
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