Tag: Cochineal dye

Derived from the crushed bodies of cochineal insects, carmine is a natural food colorant, while Red 40 is a synthetic dye created from petroleum. These two common red additives are fundamentally different in their origin, potential health effects, and suitability for certain dietary preferences, despite producing a similar vibrant red hue.

Over 70,000 beetles are needed to produce just one pound of shellac, an ingredient that has been used in some candy coatings. This fact leads many to question: does Starburst have bugs in it, or bug-derived ingredients? The answer depends on which Starburst product you are considering, as certain ingredients do originate from insects.