Crimson

Other names: Chenille, Carmine, CI 75470, Cochineal, E120

Carmine is a red organic dye that is used in both the food and cosmetic industries. Other names by which carmine is known are cochineal, Carmine, CI 75470, Cochineal, E120. This natural dye is obtained from the soft bodies of female cochineal worms that live on cacti. Production is quite difficult and a large proportion of them come from South and Central America. The processing of these worms produces carminic acid, which is an essential component of carmine and gives it its characteristic blood-red colour.

Carmine is often used in the food industry as a food colouring, giving food an attractive and appealing appearance. In the European Union it is designated E120 and is approved for use in a wide range of foods, including confectionery, beverages and dairy products. Outside the food industry, carmine is also often used in the cosmetics industry, where it is the main ingredient in many lipsticks, powders and other make-up products. It is a popular dye because it is natural, harmless and very resistant to light and heat. Although carmine is perfectly safe for human health, people with insect allergies should avoid these products.