Foods that Contain Red 33 and Where to Find It

January 2, 2026 •

3 min read

While largely banned for food use in the U.S. and some other regions, the synthetic red dye known as Red 33 (or Carmoisine) is still permitted and used in food production in many other countries. Understanding what foods contain Red 33 is crucial for those who are sensitive to artificial colorings or adhere to specific dietary restrictions.

Quick Summary

An overview of Red 33 (Carmoisine) examines where this synthetic red dye is found in food products around the world, particularly in regions where its use is still permitted. The article details common applications and explains how to spot this specific food additive on ingredient lists.

Key Points

International Regulation: Red 33 (Carmoisine, E122) is banned in some countries like the U.S. and Canada for food use, but is still approved in many others, including the European Union.
Common Food Sources: Where permitted, Red 33 is found in sweets, flavored drinks, pastries, desserts, and some processed meats and cheeses.
Label Identification: To spot this dye, check labels for 'Red 33', 'Carmoisine', or 'E122', especially on imported products.
Vegan Friendly: Unlike carmine, Red 33 is a synthetic dye derived from petroleum and is considered vegan.
Potential Health Concerns: Some studies, particularly the Southampton study, have linked Carmoisine to hyperactivity in sensitive children when combined with benzoates.
Not Red 3 or Red 40: Red 33 should not be confused with Red 3 (banned in the U.S. for food) or Red 40, which have different chemical compositions and regulatory statuses.
Check Products Carefully: Because of international variances, careful label reading is the best way for consumers to identify its presence in food.

Understanding Red 33: A Global Perspective on Carmoisine

Red 33 is a synthetic red azo dye, also known as Carmoisine or E122, used to impart a pink, red, or maroon color to various products. Its status varies significantly depending on the country. While some nations have banned or restricted its use in foods, it remains a common colorant in many others. For consumers, this means that checking product labels is essential, especially when purchasing imported goods or traveling abroad.

Foods Containing Red 33 (Carmoisine)

In regions where it is approved for use, Red 33 is found in a wide range of food products, thanks to its low cost and high color intensity. Its water-solubility makes it a versatile ingredient for manufacturers. It is particularly common in items that are heat-processed or fermented.

Confectionery and Sweets:

Colored candies, gummies, and lollipops.
Jellies, jams, and fruit preparations.
Pastries, cakes, and biscuit rolls.

Beverages:

Fruit-based drinks, cordials, and some sodas.
Flavored milk beverages, including strawberry milk.
Certain alcoholic beverages, like fruit wines.

Dairy and Desserts:

Some yogurts and flavored melted cheeses.
Ice creams, puddings, and other desserts.

Processed Foods and Condiments:

Processed fish products and crustacean pastes.
Certain sauces and mustards.
Some breakfast cereals with colorful pieces.

Differentiating Red 33 from Other Dyes

It is important not to confuse Red 33 with other red dyes, such as the now-banned Red 3 (Erythrosine) in the U.S. or the widely used Red 40 (Allura Red AC). Each of these dyes has a unique chemical composition and regulatory history. Red 33 is an azo dye, a class of synthetic colorants often scrutinized for potential health effects, though regulatory bodies in some regions, like the EFSA, have deemed it safe within specified limits.

Comparison of Common Red Dyes


Feature	Red 33 (Carmoisine)	Red 3 (Erythrosine)	Red 40 (Allura Red AC)
Classification	Azo dye, E122	Xanthene dye, E127	Azo dye, E129
Regulatory Status (USA, 2025)	Not on approved food list	Banned in food and ingested drugs	Approved for use in food
Common Uses	Confectionery, drinks, dairy (where permitted)	Former use in maraschino cherries, candy	Wide range of foods, drinks, and cosmetics
Vegan Status	Vegan dye	Vegan dye	Vegan dye
Potential Health Concerns	Linked to hyperactivity in studies with benzoates	Linked to cancer in rat studies	Linked to hyperactivity in some studies

How to Identify Red 33 on Labels

Navigating ingredient labels can be challenging, but there are specific names to look for. Red 33 will be listed under its common name, its E-number, or its specific chemical name.

Carmoisine: The most common name for this food additive.
E122: The European food additive numbering system designation.
CI 17200: The Color Index International name, often used on cosmetics and sometimes mentioned for food-grade quality.
Acid Red 14: Another name for the dye.

Potential Health Considerations

While approved for use by some regulatory bodies, some studies have raised concerns about the potential effects of azo dyes, including Carmoisine. Research, notably the Southampton study, suggested a link between artificial food colors (including some azo dyes like Carmoisine) and increased hyperactivity in children when consumed in conjunction with sodium benzoate. For those sensitive to salicylates or with asthma, azo dyes can sometimes elicit intolerance or allergic reactions. As with any food additive, individual reactions can vary.

The Vegan Status of Red 33

For those following a vegan diet, it's relevant to know that Red 33 is a synthetic dye and is not derived from animal products. Unlike some other red colorings, such as carmine (which is derived from cochineal beetles), Carmoisine is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. This distinction is important for those avoiding animal-derived ingredients for ethical or dietary reasons.

Conclusion: Informed Choices for the Aware Consumer

Understanding what foods contain Red 33 is the first step toward making informed dietary choices, particularly for those concerned about artificial additives. Because its use and regulations differ internationally, reading labels is the most reliable way to monitor intake. For consumers in regions where it is permitted, being aware of common product categories and the various names under which it appears is key. While regulatory bodies have established safety parameters, personal sensitivity and dietary preferences should always guide individual choices. With awareness, consumers can navigate the global food market confidently, whether avoiding Red 33 or simply understanding its presence in common products.

Center for Science in the Public Interest: The Red 3 Scandal

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Red 33 (Carmoisine) is not the same as Red Dye 3 (Erythrosine). They are different chemical compounds with distinct regulatory histories. The FDA banned Red Dye 3 for food use in the U.S. in 2025, but Red 33 was never listed for food use in the U.S..

No, Red 33 is not on the list of color additives approved for food use in the United States. Its use in food in the U.S. is prohibited, though it is approved in cosmetics and mouthwashes.

The E-number for Red 33 is E122. This code is used throughout the European Union and other regions that use this food additive numbering system.

Yes, while the E122 number is common in Europe, Red 33 (Carmoisine) can be found in food products in many other countries, particularly in parts of Asia and other markets where its use is approved.

Some studies, like the Southampton study, have linked synthetic food dyes including Carmoisine to hyperactivity in children, especially when combined with preservatives like sodium benzoate. Those with a sensitivity to salicylates or asthma may also experience allergic reactions.

Yes, Carmoisine (Red 33) is a synthetic dye and does not contain animal products. It is considered a vegan-friendly food colorant, unlike some other red dyes like carmine.

To avoid Red 33, check the ingredient list on packaged and imported food products for 'Carmoisine,' 'E122,' or 'Red 33.' Choosing products with natural colorants, such as beet juice, is another effective strategy.