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E120 · INS 120Always animal

Carmine (cochineal)

Common US / international name: carmine / cochineal extract / Natural Red 4

Origin
Made from dried female scale insects (Dactylopius coccus) and their carminic acid.
Where it typically appears
Yogurts, candies, juices, ice cream, colored cosmetics.
Product groups
Sweets, Drinks, Dairy, Other
Source
EU Reg. No 1333/2008 Annex II; Codex CAC/GL 36-1989; Open Food Facts additives taxonomy (ODbL). As of September 1, 2026