Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Erythrosine
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Erythrosine (E127) 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 Erythrosine?
Red dye. Limited to cocktail cherries in EU
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
BANNED (2025)US name: FD&C Red No. 3 (Erythrosine)
FDA revoked authorization Jan 2025 due to cancer concerns in animals
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
Approved (restricted)Red dye. Limited to cocktail cherries in EU
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EU pre-BrexitUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
ApprovedJapanese: エリスロシン (赤色3号)
Approved as Red No. 3 in Japan. Under review given US ban
🇨🇦 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
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Japanese standards. Regulated by MFDS.
🇧🇷 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
Erythrosine 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. Erythrosine 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 Erythrosine safe?
Erythrosine has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Is Erythrosine vegan?
Erythrosine is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Erythrosine banned in Europe?
No, Erythrosine is Approved (restricted) in the EU.
What is Erythrosine made from?
Red dye. Limited to cocktail cherries in EU
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Erythrosine safe?
Is Erythrosine banned in any country?
What is Erythrosine used for?
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