Carmine (cochineal)
Carmine, also called cochineal or E120, is a red colour extracted from cochineal insects.
- Used in
- Food ingredient
- Role
- Colour
- E-number
- E120
Other names IngrediLens checks with this entry
The app's database groups these label names, including names used on labels in other European languages, with carmine. Some are true synonyms, others are close relatives with the same allergen or concern.
Contains / relevant to
- Carmine / cochineal: Relevant to people avoiding carmine / cochineal. Insect-derived red colour (E120).
- Vegan: Not vegan: IngrediLens flags it as an ingredient of animal origin.
- Vegetarian: Not vegetarian: IngrediLens flags it as needing slaughter or insects.
What to look for on labels
- In the US, carmine and cochineal extract must be declared by name rather than as “colour added”; in the EU look for E120.
- In the EU it can also appear as E120.
Questions and answers
Is carmine made from insects?
Yes. Carmine is a red colour extracted from cochineal insects, so it is not vegan or vegetarian.
Is carmine vegan?
No. Carmine is of animal origin, so IngrediLens flags it for a vegan diet.
Related
- ShellacShellac is a resin secreted by the lac insect, used as a shiny glaze (E904) on sweets, fruit and tablets.
- GelatinGelatin is a gelling agent made from animal collagen, usually from pork or beef skin and bones.
- Lard (pork fat)Lard is rendered pork fat, used in baking, frying and some processed foods.
- E120: Cochineal, carminic acid, carminesE-number page: what the additive does and what to watch for.
- E-numbers explained: what food label codes meanGuide
- How to read allergen labels on food (EU, UK and US)Guide
Sources
Documented cases of IgE-mediated reactions to carmine in food and cosmetics.
- Published allergy case literature
- IngrediLens ingredient database (names, flags and notes shown on this page)
Label information, not medical advice. This page describes how an ingredient is named and labelled and how IngrediLens flags it; it cannot tell you whether a product is safe for you. Always read the label on the product itself and follow the advice of your doctor, allergist or dermatologist. If someone shows signs of anaphylaxis, use their adrenaline auto-injector if they have one and call emergency services.
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