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E 120 Carmine %52 - %55s aluminum lake, carmine, finds use in the coloring of foods.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 – also called cochineal (when it is extracted from the cochineal insect), cochineal extract, crimson lake, or carmine lake – is a pigment of a bright-red color obtained from the aluminium complex derived from carminic acid.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is also a general term for a particularly deep-red color.
CAS Number: 1260-17-9
Molecular Formula: C22H20O13
Molecular Weight: 492.39
EINECS Number: 215-023-3
Synonyms: CARMINIC ACID, 1260-17-9, Natural red 4, Carmine, Coccinellin, Sun Red No. 1, Cochineal tincture, Sanred 1, CI Natural Red 4, Sun Red 1, Cochineal, San-Ei Gen San Red 1, 2-Anthracenecarboxylic acid, 7-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-9,10-dihydro-3,5,6,8-tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-, C.I. Natural red 4, MFCD00167028, 3,5,6,8-Tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-7-((2S,3R,4R,5S,6R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-yl)-9,10-dihydroanthracene-2-carboxylic acid, CI 75470, E 120, Carminic acid (E120), C.I. 75470, CID8Z8N95N, DTXSID9022817, carminate, CARMINIC ACID (NATURAL DYE), 1390-65-4, 3,5,6,8-tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-7-[(2S,3R,4R,5S,6R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)oxan-2-yl]anthracene-2-carboxylic acid, Carmine Red, Carminic Acid, >70%, DSSTox_CID_2817, DSSTox_RID_81084, DSSTox_GSID_45735, DTXCID902817, E120, (1S)-1,5-anhydro-1-(7-carboxy-1,3,4,6-tetrahydroxy-8-methyl-9,10-dioxo-9,10-dihydroanthracen-2-yl)-D-glucitol, 3,5,6,8-tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-7-[(2S,3S,4R,5S,6R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)oxan-2-yl]anthracene-2-carboxylic acid, CAS-1260-17-9, CAS-1343-78-8, E 120 (dye), CCRIS 1397, HSDB 912, CARMINE (ALUM LAKE), NSC 6196, EINECS 215-023-3, UNII-CID8Z8N95N, NSC 326224, CHEBI:78310, UNII-TZ8Z31B35M, Cochenille dye, AI3-18242, Cochineal, dye, NSC-326224, NCGC00091708-04, 2-Anthracenecarboxylic acid, 7-.beta.-D-glucopyranosyl-9,10-dihydro-3,5,6,8-tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-, ENJI, COCHINEAL CARMINE, Cochineal Carmine Powder, COCHINEAL RED PWD, Carminic Acid Natural dye, CI-NATURAL RED 4, CARMINIC ACID [MI], 2-Anthroic acid, 7-D-glucopyrosyl-9,10-dihydro-3,5,6,8-tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-, 7-D-Glucopyranosyl-9,10-dihydro-3,5,6,8-tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-2-anthroic acid, CARMINE 5297, NATURAL RED 2180, CARMINIC ACID [HSDB], 7beta-D-Glucopyranosyl-9,10-dihydro-3,5,6,8-tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-2-anthracenecarboxylic acid, MLS002472940, Carmine component carminic acid, Carminic acid, puriss., 95%, CCRIS 4511, CHEMBL263094, SCHEMBL1808534, TZ8Z31B35M, INS-120, Carminic acid, analytical standard, HMS2205G17, 3,5,6,8-tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-7-[(2S,3R,4R,5S,6R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)oxan-2-yl]-9,10-dihydroanthracene-2-carboxylic acid, HY-N8407, EINECS 215-680-6, Tox21_111163, Tox21_201979, Tox21_300294, AKOS015894273, Tox21_111163_1, MC30619, NCGC00247988-01, NCGC00247988-02, NCGC00247988-03, NCGC00254004-01, NCGC00259528-01, 2-Anthracenecarboxylic acid, 7-ss-D-glucopyranosyl-9,10-dihydro-3,5,6,8-tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-, AS-76171, SMR001397048, CS-0144108, E-120, CI-(1975)-NO.75470, D89264, 10.14272/DGQLVPJVXFOQEV-JNVSTXMASA-N.1, Q416860, doi:10.14272/DGQLVPJVXFOQEV-JNVSTXMASA-N.1, Carminic acid, primary pharmaceutical reference standard, Carminic acid (E120) 100 microg/mL in Acetonitrile:Methanol, 2-Anthracenecarboxylic acid, 7-|A-D-glucopyranosyl-9,10-dihydro-3,5,6,8-tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-, 3,5,6,8-Tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-7-((2S,3R,4R,5S,6R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-yl)-9,10-dihydroanthracene-2-carboxylicacid, 7- b- D- Glucopyranosyl- 9, 10- dihydro- 3, 5, 6, 8- tetrahydroxy- 1- methyl- 9, 10- dioxo-2- anthracenecarboxylic acid, 7-Carboxy-4,6-dihydroxy-8-methyl-9,10-dioxo-2-[(2S,3R,4R,5S,6R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)oxan-2-yl]anthracene-1,3-diolate, Carminic Acid ;3,5,6,8-Tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-7-((2S,3R,4R,5S,6R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-yl)-9,10-dihydroanthracene-2-carboxylic acid;Carminic acid (C.I. 75470) GR for analysis and for microscopy;ALUMINUM LAKE OF CARMINIC ACID;2-anthracenecarboxylicacid,7-beta-d-glucopyranosyl-9,10-dihydro-3,5,6,8-tetra;7-.beta.-D-glucopyranosyl-9,10-dihydro-3,5,6,8-tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo-2-Anthracenecarboxylicacid;7-alpha-d-glucopyranosyl-9,10-dihydro-3,5,6,8-tetrahydroxy-1-methyl-9,10-dioxo;C.I.Naturalred4
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55, when specified as being between 52% to 55%, refers to the concentration of carminic acid, which is the primary active component of the dye.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55, a natural red pigment, is derived from the cochineal insect (Dactylopius coccus), and it is used in various industries, particularly in the food and cosmetic sectors.
The percentage of carminic acid indicates its purity or concentration in a specific formulation of carmine.
A concentration range of 52% to 55% typically means that the carmine preparation contains between 52% and 55% pure carminic acid, with the remainder consisting of other substances such as water, salts, or preservatives that stabilize the pigment or improve its application properties.
This concentrated carmine extract is commonly used for providing a deep red or crimson color in products such as beverages, candies, cosmetics, and textiles, among others.
The precise percentage of carminic acid in a carmine preparation is an important factor, as it influences the strength, stability, and longevity of the color it imparts to the final product.
Cochineal extract is a concentrated solution obtained after removing alcohol from an aqueous–alcoholic extract of cochineal (Dactylopius coccus Costa, also called Coccus cati L.).
This extract is used as a color additive, the primary colorant being carminic acid.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55, is a red dye occurring as a glycoside in the body of the cochineal insect Dactylopius coccus of the order Homoptera, family Coccidae.
This insect is native to Central and South America.
The Aztecs had extracted the dye from the insect centuries before the coming of the Spaniards.
For breeding purposes, the insects were collected in the autumn and carefully protected during the winter months.
Cochineal was harvested after three months, and then the bugs were killed by immersion in hot water, by placing in hot ovens, or by exposure to the hot sun.
The latter method produced the highest quality dye. At present, Peru and the Canary Islands are the main source of the dye.
Until the advent of synthetic dyes, the principal use for E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 was for dyeing tin-mordanted wool or silk.
The English word "carmine" is derived from the French word carmin (12th century), from Medieval Latin carminium, from Persian قرمز qirmiz ("crimson") and from Armenian կարմիր/carmir ("red"), which both derive from Middle Persian carmir ("red, crimson").
Specific code names for the pigment include natural red 4, C.I. 75470, or E120.
The Persian term carmir is likely cognate with Sanskrit krimiga ("insect-produced"), from krmi ("worm, insect").
The Persian word for "worm, insect" is kirm, and in Iran (Persia) the red colorant carmine was extracted from the bodies of dead female insects such as Kermes vermilio and cochineal.
The form of the term may also have been influenced in Latin by minium ("red lead, cinnabar"), said to be of Iberian origin.
The word "carmine" has been used as a color name as early as 1799.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is a popular food color, used in yogurt, candy, gelatin, meat, and beverages including fruit juices.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 that is that is 1,3,4,6-tetrahydroxy-9,10-anthraquinone substituted by a methyl group at position 8, a carboxy group at position 7 and a 1,5-anhydro-D-glucitol moiety at position 2 via a C-gly osidic linkage.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is a natural dye isolated from several insects such as Dactylopius coccus.
Dark purplish-brown mass or bright red or dark red powder.
Deep red color in water yellow to violet in acidic aqueous solutions.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 insects were used for their red coloring power as early as 700 BC. American civilizations (from the American continent) crushed the bugs present on cacti to extract the carmine they contain.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 pigment was extensively used by the Aztec civilization to dye textiles.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 was imported later to Europe during the 16th century.
Red is a color often associated with power and social status.
Through the centuries, red has been worn by tribal chiefs, kings and queens, and military officers.
Cochineal was a major source of income for the Spanish Crown. By weight, it was a far more valuable commodity than sugar, making it especially lucrative for overseas trade.
As part of the triangular trade, its production and consumption were intertwined with slavery.
In European markets, the Spanish Crown had a monopoly on cochineal until 1820 when the French learned to cultivate them.
Later, German and British scientists created a synthetic red dye that competed with carmine.
The combination of these factors contributed to the end of the Spanish monopoly and considerably lowered the price of carmine, making it accessible to a wider audience.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 was used in dyeing textiles and in painting since antiquity.
Numerous examples are found among Inca remains such as textile artifacts.
In Europe, the 16th century Italian painter Jacopo Tintoretto used carmine in several of his paintings, the most notable being Portrait of Vincenzo Morosini (1575-80) and Christ Washing the Feet of the Disciples(1575-80).
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 was also used by nineteenth-century artists such as Vincent van Gogh in Bedroom in Arles (1889).
The floor of the bedroom is painted with carmine cochineal lake, geranium lake and indigo.
This produced a reddish color, which over time changed to blueish.
Analysis of J. M. W. Turner's palettes found that he used cochineal carmine.
The fading of this pigment affected the appearance of the sky in The Fighting Temeraire.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55, is considered a high-quality and concentrated form of the pigment derived from the cochineal insect.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is extracted from the dried bodies of female cochineal insects, and the pigment is then processed to create various forms, such as liquid, powder, or paste, depending on its intended use.
In its 52% to 55% concentration, carmine provides a vibrant red to crimson hue, which is highly valued for its rich, stable color properties.
This level of concentration is commonly used in the food industry, particularly for products like fruit juices, ice creams, yogurts, and confections, where it imparts an appealing and uniform red coloration.
Additionally, carmine in this concentration is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products, including lipsticks, blushes, and other makeup, due to its strong, lasting color and the natural appeal of being derived from an animal source.
Moreover, the high concentration of E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 in this formulation allows for better color retention, which is especially beneficial in products that are exposed to light, air, or heat.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 ensures the longevity of the vibrant red or pink tones in the final product.
However, the presence of carminic acid at this concentration also means that the product needs to be carefully managed during production and usage, as the pigment can be sensitive to pH changes, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to light, which can affect its stability over time.
Despite being a natural product, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 has faced some scrutiny in recent years due to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, and its use in foods and cosmetics may be regulated in some countries.
This concentration of carmine is typically more expensive than lower concentrations, as it represents a purer form of the dye, making it highly effective and desirable in applications requiring a stronger, more stable colorant.
Melting point: 136 °C
alpha: 15654 +51.6° (water)
Boiling point: 506.2 °C (rough estimate)
Density: 1.4504 (rough estimate)
Bulk density: 490 kg/m³
Refractive index: 1.6000 (estimate)
Flash point: 12 °C
Storage temp.: room temp
Solubility: 30 g/L
Colour Index: 75470
Form: Crystalline Powder
pKa: 1.62 ± 0.20 (Predicted)
Color: Red to dark red
pH: 1.6 (10 g/L, H₂O, 20 °C)
Odor: Odorless
pH Range: 4.8 – 6.2
Optical activity: [α]²⁰/D +3.1°, c = 1 in H₂O
Water Solubility: 1.298 g/L (room temperature)
λmax: 495 nm
ε (extinction coefficient):
≥13000 at 222–228 nm in ethanol at 0.03 g/L
≥18000 at 275–281 nm in ethanol at 0.03 g/L
Merck: 14,1843
BRN: 71651
LogP: 1.532 (est)
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is a fugitive color, whose fading is influenced by different factors such as light, humidity, or even the color of the glass of a frame.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is highly sensitive to light and tends to fade into brownish tones.
In painting, its durability depends on the type of binding.
For instance, pigments are more stable if mixed with linseed oil rather than with gum arabic.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is especially sensitive to light in watercolor.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 can be stabilized when precipitated with alum and when combined with tin salt mordants.
The pigment is produced from E 120 Carmine %52 - %55, which is extracted from some scale insects such as the cochineal scale (Prima), and certain Porphyrophora species (Armenian cochineal and Polish cochineal).
Attempts have been made to farm cochineal.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is a colorant used in the manufacture of artificial flowers, paints, crimson ink, rouge and other cosmetics, and some medications.
Synthetic carminic acid is complex and expensive to produce.
Therefore, natural cochineal carmine is predominant on the market.
Its instability presents challenges for use in art and textiles, but this is less of a hindrance in the context of cosmetics.
As its synthetic production is still largely experimental, ongoing research focuses on improving the efficiency and sustainability of the synthetic pathways.
Scientists can detect the presence of carminic acid through liquid chromatography and a diode array detector combined with a mass spectrometer with a quadruple-time-of-flight analyzer (LC-DAD-QTOF).
The process is used for identifying carmine in works of art.
Scientific methods can also distinguish among the different species of cochineal used in artworks.
To prepare carmine, the powdered scale insect bodies are boiled in an ammonia or sodium carbonate solution.
After separating the insoluble matter, the extract is treated with alum to precipitate the red solid.
This precipitate is called "carmine lake" or "crimson lake". Purity of color is ensured by the absence of iron.
Stannous chloride, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55, borax, or gelatin may be added to modify the precipitation.
The traditional crimson color is affected not only by carminic acid but also by choice of its chelating metal salt ion.
For shades of purple, lime is added to the alum.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 with a concentration of 52% to 55% carminic acid is typically produced through a meticulous process that ensures high purity and intensity of color.
The carminic acid, the active component responsible for the red pigment, is extracted from the cochineal insects that are harvested primarily in regions like Central and South America.
The insects are dried and processed to extract the pigment, which is then refined to meet specific concentration requirements, such as the 52% to 55% range.
In this concentrated form, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 becomes a potent dye that is well-suited for applications requiring vibrant, long-lasting red hues.
The pigment is favored in the food industry for products such as sauces, candies, desserts, dairy products, and beverages.
In these applications, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55's ability to withstand the conditions of food processing—such as heat, pH changes, and light exposure—makes it an excellent choice for manufacturers seeking to ensure consistent color throughout the product's shelf life.
Beyond the food industry, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 with this high concentration of carminic acid also has significant uses in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.
In cosmetics, its use in products like blush, eyeshadow, and lip gloss is due to its ability to produce a vivid red or pink color that holds up well against exposure to light and air.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55's natural origin and intense pigmentation also make it a preferred choice in luxury or organic product lines, where consumers often favor natural ingredients.
In pharmaceuticals, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is sometimes used as a colorant for tablets and capsules, as its bright red hue makes the medication more visually appealing.
Additionally, its ability to impart a vibrant color that is stable over time can enhance the overall branding and aesthetic of pharmaceutical products.
However, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 with such a high carminic acid content must be handled with care during formulation.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 requires precise control over temperature and pH levels to ensure that its color properties are retained and that it does not degrade or change under manufacturing conditions.
Furthermore, this higher concentration means that it can be a more potent allergen for sensitive individuals, particularly for those with sensitivities to insect-derived products.
Therefore, labeling requirements for products containing carmine are stringent, with regulations varying by region to ensure that consumers are aware of its presence.
While E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 has been the subject of some controversy due to its animal origin, it remains a widely accepted ingredient in many countries, particularly in the European Union, where its use is regulated under food additive codes like E 120.
The high concentration of carminic acid in carmine makes it an efficient and effective solution for industries that require a bold, stable red colorant in their products.
As confirmed by reflectance spectroscopy, carmine reflects mostly red light.
Its hue ranges from 497 nm for a dark purplish red and 612 nm for a vibrant red.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55's hue is dependent on the metallic ions present in the pigment.
For instance, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 combined with zinc or aluminum yields a crimson hue.
The translucence of carmine depends on its binding medium.
Mixed with oil, carmine remains translucent and adequate for glazes combined with tempera or glue, carmine turns opaque.
In January 2006, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) evaluated a proposal that would require food products containing carmine to list it by name on the ingredient label.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 was also announced that the FDA will separately review the ingredient labels of prescription drugs that contain colorings derived from carmine.
A request from the Center for Science in the Public Interest urging the FDA to require ingredient labels to explicitly state that carmine is derived from insects and may cause severe allergic reactions and anaphylactic shock was declined by the FDA.
Food industries were aggressively opposed to the idea of writing "insect-based" on the label, and the FDA agreed to allow "cochineal extract" or "carmine".
In the European Union (EU), the use of carmine in foods is regulated under the European Commission's directives governing food additives in general and food dyes in particular and listed under the names Cochineal, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55, Carmines and Natural Red 4 as additive E 120 in the list of EU-approved food additives.
The directive governing food dyes approves the use of carmine for certain groups of foods only[44] and specifies a maximum amount which is permitted or restricts it to the quantum satis.
The EU-Directive 2000/13/EC on food labeling mandates that carmines (like all food additives) must be included in the list of ingredients of a food product with its additive category and listed name or additive number, that is either as Food colour carmines or as Food colour E 120 in the local language(s) of the market(s) the product is sold in.
As of January 2012, EFSA has changed the way they allow use of E 120 Carmine %52 - %55for pharmaceutical products.
The EFSA had raised concerns over the increasing number of allergic reactions to carmine derived from insects (E120.360), when used within the British Pharmacopoeia.
Pharmaceutical products which had previously contained insect-derived carmine, have been replaced with a synthesized version of the food colorant.
Internal studies have shown that the new formulations of popular anti-nausea and weight-gain liquid medication had a significantly lower risk in terms of allergic reactions.
The new formulation is known to be of plant origin, using calcium oxide to gauge color depth.
Uses:
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 For staining nuclei in histological sections. Used to prepare staining solutions.
A red glucosidal hydroxyanthrapurin, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is produced naturally within some insects as a defense mechanism.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 red has been used in military cartography at least since the 17th century.
Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban, General Engineer of France, recommended the use of this red pigment to represent fortifications (ramparts, wood timbers, and brick buildings being reddish).
This made buildings more distinct on maps.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is present in numerous cosmetics because of its red color.
This use has continued from antiquity to the present.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 can be found in lipstick, eye shadow, nail polish.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 may cause allergies.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 can be used in histology, as Best's carmine to stain glycogen, mucicarmine to stain acidic mucopolysaccharides, and carmalum to stain cell nuclei.
In these applications, it is applied together with a mordant, usually an Al(III) salt.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 with a carminic acid content of 52% to 55% is widely used across various industries due to its vibrant red color and stability in a range of products.
One of the most prominent uses of this pigment is in the food industry, where it serves as a colorant in products such as beverages, candies, ice creams, cakes, sauces, and processed meats.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55s ability to provide a rich, natural red hue makes it particularly desirable in applications where artificial colorants may not be as appealing to consumers.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is also used in dairy products, such as yogurt, cheese, and flavored milks, where its natural origin is an important selling point.
In addition to food, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is extensively used in cosmetics and personal care products.
The cosmetic industry relies on carmine for its bright red and pink tones, often found in products like lipsticks, blushes, eyeshadows, and nail polishes.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55s stability ensures that the color remains consistent even under exposure to light and air, making it a preferred choice in high-end beauty products.
The natural appeal of E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 also drives its popularity in organic and eco-conscious cosmetics, where consumers seek products with fewer synthetic ingredients.
Pharmaceutical applications of carmine also play a significant role, particularly in tablet and capsule coatings, where it adds a distinctive red color.
This not only enhances the visual appeal of the medication but also helps to differentiate various products on the market.
Some pharmaceutical companies also use E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 in liquid medicines, where it serves both as a coloring agent and a way to improve the palatability of certain formulations.
Additionally, carmine’s inclusion in pharmaceutical products is often preferred due to its relatively low cost compared to synthetic red dyes.
Beyond these, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 has niche uses in arts and crafts, particularly in the production of high-quality inks, paints, and dyes used by professional artists.
The pigment's intense and long-lasting color allows it to be incorporated into various artistic mediums, where durability and a natural look are highly valued.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is also used in textiles, particularly in premium fabrics, where its vibrant hue is appreciated.
However, the use of carmine does come with certain challenges.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is derived from cochineal insects, which means it is not suitable for vegan or vegetarian products.
This has led to some criticism, especially in regions where consumers are particularly sensitive to animal-derived ingredients.
Nonetheless, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55's natural origins and the deep, stable color it imparts continue to make it a versatile and widely used ingredient across multiple industries.
Cochineal, the insect used to make E 120 Carmine %52 - %55, also has medical properties that were exploited by the Aztecs.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is said to help cure wounds when mixed with vinegar and applied to lesions.
Aztecs used it to clean teeth.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55, with a carminic acid concentration between 52% and 55%, is also widely used in the textile and leather industries, where it is valued for its ability to impart deep, rich red and pink hues to fabrics and leather goods.
This natural dye offers a high degree of colorfastness, meaning it does not easily fade or wash out, making it ideal for luxury textiles, including high-end clothing, upholstery, and accessories.
In this context, carmine is often preferred over synthetic dyes due to its vibrant and natural appearance, which is especially sought after in artisanal and luxury products.
In the pharmaceutical sector, carmine plays an important role in the production of certain medicines.
Its use as a colorant in drugs helps to make tablets and capsules more visually distinct, aiding in easy identification of different formulations and dosages.
In some instances, it is used in the preparation of liquid pharmaceutical products, where its bright red color helps enhance the appearance and potentially the appeal of the product.
Additionally, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55's natural origins are sometimes highlighted in products marketed as "natural" or "organic," catering to consumers who prefer ingredients derived from nature rather than synthetic substances.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55's applications extend into the field of food and beverage decoration as well.
The pigment is commonly used for coating candies, chocolates, and decorative cake toppings, providing an appealing gloss and a natural red color that synthetic alternatives cannot match.
Additionally, it is employed in creating visually striking beverages such as fruit juices, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages like liqueurs, where its rich red hue adds to the aesthetic appeal.
Furthermore, E 120 Carmine %52 - %55's natural colorant properties have made it a staple in the cosmetic industry, where it is used to create high-quality makeup products.
Lipsticks, blushers, eyeshadows, and nail polishes often contain carmine to provide vibrant, long-lasting color.
This use extends to skincare products like facial masks and body lotions, where it enhances product appeal without compromising on natural ingredients.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is especially popular in high-end beauty products, as it is seen as more luxurious and authentic compared to synthetic dyes.
For artistic and craft purposes, carmine is a key ingredient in many artist-grade paints, where its intense color and stability over time are essential for producing works that maintain their brilliance and vibrancy.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is used in oil paints, watercolors, and acrylic paints, and is also a favored component in various traditional and modern dyeing processes.
Because of its rich history and aesthetic appeal, carmine has become a symbol of high-quality artistry.
Despite its versatility and widespread use, carmine does face some ethical and regulatory challenges.
Its derivation from cochineal insects has raised concerns among certain consumer groups, particularly vegans and vegetarians, who avoid animal-derived ingredients.
As such, there has been a growing trend toward seeking plant-based or synthetic alternatives that offer similar coloration without the use of animals.
However, carmine continues to be highly regarded for its natural origin, sustainability in production, and ability to provide an enduring, stable color in a wide variety of applications.
Safety Profile:
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 has been known to cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
These reactions can range from mild skin irritation to more severe responses such as hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
The allergy is usually linked to the presence of proteins from the cochineal insect, from which carmine is derived.
People who are allergic to cochineal or other insect-based products should avoid carmine-containing products.
In rare cases, individuals with hypersensitivity to carmine may experience anaphylactic reactions, a severe, life-threatening allergic response.
This is more common in individuals who have a history of allergies to food dyes, insect-derived products, or certain medications.
Anaphylaxis can cause symptoms such as a drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness, requiring immediate medical attention.
Since carmine is a natural pigment derived from cochineal insects, there is a risk of contamination during its production process.
Poor hygiene or improper handling during manufacturing could result in contamination with harmful microorganisms, leading to potential health risks if the product is consumed or used topically.
For some individuals, the use of E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 presents ethical concerns, particularly among vegetarians, vegans, and those who follow certain religious dietary restrictions.
E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 is derived from insects, making it unsuitable for those who avoid animal-based products.
This has led to a demand for plant-based or synthetic alternatives in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
The production of E 120 Carmine %52 - %55 involves the collection and processing of cochineal insects, which may raise concerns regarding the environmental sustainability of large-scale harvesting practices.
While cochineal harvesting is generally considered to have a lower environmental impact than some synthetic dyes, there are concerns about the ethics and ecological effects of insect farming in certain regions.
