Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Amaranth
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Amaranth (E123) 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 Amaranth?
Red dye. Banned in US (Red No. 2). Limited use in EU
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
BANNED (1976)US name: FD&C Red No. 2 (Amaranth)
Banned by FDA in 1976
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
Approved (restricted)Red dye. Banned in US (Red No. 2). Limited use in EU
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EU pre-BrexitUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
BANNEDJapanese: アマランス (赤色2号)
Red No. 2 banned in Japan
🇨🇦 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
May be restrictedCheck MFDS (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
Amaranth 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. Amaranth 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 Amaranth safe?
Amaranth has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Is Amaranth vegan?
Amaranth is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Amaranth banned in Europe?
No, Amaranth is Approved (restricted) in the EU.
What is Amaranth made from?
Red dye. Banned in US (Red No. 2). Limited use in EU
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amaranth safe?
Is Amaranth banned in any country?
What is Amaranth used for?
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