Ingredient · E120

Halved Cherries Artificially Colored Red With Carmine

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Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Carmine is used as a food coloring to impart a red color to a …

What it is

Carmine is a vibrant red pigment derived from cochineal insects, which are native to South America. The insects are dried, crushed, and then extracted to produce the colorant. It is often used to give foods a bright, stable red hue.

Why it's used

Carmine is used as a food coloring to impart a red color to a variety of products. It is frequently found in processed fruits, beverages, baked goods, and confectionery items.

Health notes

In the U.S., carmine is approved by the FDA as a color additive. Some studies have suggested a possible link between carmine consumption and hyperactivity in children, though the evidence is not conclusive. Regulatory bodies like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have also evaluated carmine, and it is permitted for use in the EU.

Allergen info

Carmine is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.