The Truth Behind the 'Red Parasite'
The rumor of a 'red parasite' in Skittles is a widely circulated myth, based on a misunderstanding of a real ingredient historically used in the candy. The ingredient in question is carmine, also known as cochineal extract or E120, a bright red food coloring extracted from the dried, crushed bodies of a specific scale insect, Dactylopius coccus. This insect lives on prickly pear cacti, but the dye undergoes processing and purification before being added to food. While the insect is a cactus parasite, the dye is not a harmful parasite present in the final product.
Carmine's source has raised concerns for those with dietary restrictions. It is not suitable for vegans and vegetarians as it's an animal byproduct. Additionally, carmine can cause severe allergic reactions in some individuals, leading the FDA to mandate specific labeling.
The Shift from Carmine to Artificial Dyes
Responding to consumer pressure and the growing demand for vegan and vegetarian options, Skittles manufacturers in the US replaced carmine with artificial food dyes around 2009. This change means US Skittles are now considered bug-free and vegetarian, using alternatives like Red 40.
It's important to note that this change isn't universal; ingredient formulations can vary internationally. Some versions of Skittles sold outside the US might still contain cochineal, making label checking essential. The use of artificial dyes like Red 40 also presents different considerations regarding potential health impacts compared to natural dyes.
Identifying Carmine on Ingredient Labels
To avoid carmine, look for these names and codes on ingredient lists:
- Carmine
- Cochineal extract
- Carminic acid
- Natural Red 4
- Crimson lake
- E120
Foods and Products That May Still Contain Carmine
Carmine remains common in many foods and cosmetics:
- Yogurts: Found in some red or pink fruit-flavored yogurts.
- Beverages: Used in certain red or pink fruit juices.
- Ice Cream and Popsicles: Provides vibrant color to some frozen desserts.
- Cosmetics: A source of red pigment in many lipsticks and blushes.
- Pharmaceuticals: Used to color the coatings of some pills.
Carmine vs. Artificial Red Dyes: A Comparison
Understanding the differences between natural and artificial dyes is key for making informed choices. Here's a comparison of carmine (E120) and Red 40:
| Feature | Carmine (E120) | Red 40 (Allura Red AC) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Natural, from crushed cochineal insects | Synthetic, derived from petroleum distillates |
| Dietary Restrictions | Not suitable for vegans, vegetarians, or those keeping kosher/halal | Generally considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians |
| Allergy Risk | Small but notable risk of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis | Some controversy and anecdotal reports of sensitivities, but generally considered low risk |
| Color Stability | Highly stable and long-lasting, resistant to heat and light | Generally stable, but can fade with light exposure |
| Labeling | Explicitly labeled as "Carmine" or "Cochineal Extract" in the US and many other countries | Labeled as "Red 40" or "Allura Red AC" |
| Current Use in Skittles | Phased out of US Skittles since approximately 2009 | Used in current US versions of Skittles |
Conclusion
The myth of a 'red parasite in Skittles' stems from the candy's past use of carmine, a red dye made from the cochineal insect. Although the cochineal insect is a cactus parasite, it is not a harmful parasite in the processed dye used for food. US Skittles switched to artificial dyes like Red 40 around 2009 to address consumer concerns, but carmine is still used in many other products. Making informed dietary decisions requires reading ingredient labels and understanding food additive sources. Consult resources like the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for up-to-date information on food additive regulations.
Navigating Food Dyes for a Healthier Diet
- Prioritize Whole Foods: Minimizes exposure to all food dyes by choosing unprocessed foods.
- Read Labels Carefully: Always check ingredient lists for carmine (E120, cochineal) and artificial dyes if you have restrictions or allergies.
- Recognize Allergies: Be aware that a small percentage of people are allergic to carmine.
- Look for Alternatives: Many products use natural colorants from plant sources as alternatives.
- Question All Additives: Understand the sources and potential impacts of all food additives, whether natural or artificial.
