Ingredient · E120

Halved Cherries Colored Red With Carmine

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Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Carmine is used as a food coloring to give products a bright red hue. …

What it is

Halved cherries are preserved and colored red using carmine. Carmine is a vibrant red pigment derived from cochineal insects, which are native to South America and Mexico. The insects are dried, crushed, and then processed to extract the carminic acid, which gives carmine its red color.

Why it's used

Carmine is used as a food coloring to give products a bright red hue. It is often found in processed fruits, candies, beverages, and baked goods. Manufacturers add it to enhance the visual appeal of foods, making them look more appetizing.

Health notes

Carmine is approved by the FDA as a color additive in the United States. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to carmine, though this is rare. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated carmine and established an acceptable daily intake. Evidence regarding potential adverse effects at typical consumption levels is mixed, with some studies suggesting possible links to hyperactivity in children, while others find no significant association.

Allergen info

Carmine is not derived from any of the 9 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.