What is Carmine?
Carmine, also known as cochineal extract, carminic acid, Natural Red 4, or E120 in Europe, is a pigment derived from the crushed bodies of female Dactylopius coccus insects. These tiny scale insects live on prickly pear cacti, mainly in South and Central America. The insects are harvested, dried, and then processed to extract carminic acid, which, when combined with aluminum or calcium salts, creates the vibrant, stable red dye. This natural colorant has been used for centuries, prized for its resistance to light, heat, and oxidation, making it more stable than many synthetic alternatives.
How to spot carmine on an ingredient list
Because of its animal-based origin, identifying carmine is important for individuals following vegetarian, vegan, kosher, or halal diets, as well as those with a rare but possible allergy. Manufacturers must list it explicitly on the ingredients label, rather than hiding it under generic terms like “color added”.
Look for the following names on product labels:
- Carmine
- Cochineal extract
- Natural Red 4
- E120
Candies and Other Products That May Contain Carmine
While many companies have moved away from carmine due to consumer feedback, some products may still use it, especially in specific red, pink, or purple varieties. Historically, carmine was more prevalent, so always check the most recent ingredient list. Some products that have been known to use or have used carmine include:
- Certain types of Nerds: Specifically, Nerds Gummy Clusters and some Wonka Nerds flavors have been cited as containing carmine.
- M&M's: The red color in M&M's was famously, and mistakenly, rumored to contain carmine for some time, but it is now confirmed to contain carmine and cochineal extract.
- Yogurt products: Some strawberry, blueberry, and raspberry-flavored yogurts, such as those from Dannon, have historically used cochineal for coloring. Many brands have since switched to other natural colorants, like fruit and vegetable juices.
- Other sweets and drinks: The list can be extensive and depends on the specific brand and flavor. Past mentions have included certain red velvet cakes and some fruit-flavored cereals, though formulations are often updated.
The Shift Away from Carmine
The most significant driver for manufacturers to move away from carmine is growing consumer demand for vegan and allergen-free products. In 2012, for example, Starbucks announced it would switch to a tomato-based extract (lycopene) for some products following customer complaints about the use of cochineal. The explicit labeling requirement in the U.S. and E.U. also makes it easier for consumers to find and avoid products with carmine if they wish.
Potential Allergic Reactions to Carmine
Although carmine is considered safe for consumption by regulatory bodies like the FDA, a small percentage of people can have allergic reactions to it. The allergic reaction is often caused by insect proteins present in the dye, not the carminic acid itself. Reactions can range from mild contact dermatitis to more severe, life-threatening anaphylactic shock in rare cases. For individuals with known allergies, carefully reading labels is crucial.
Alternatives to Carmine in Confectionery
As public awareness increases, many candy makers now use plant-based colorants. These alternatives are suitable for vegans and those with carmine allergies.
- Beetroot: This vegetable provides a pink to deep red hue and is a common carmine alternative.
- Lycopene: A vibrant red carotenoid found in tomatoes, this is a popular replacement for carmine and was adopted by Starbucks.
- Fruit and vegetable juice concentrates: Many brands, including Yum Earth and Black Forest, use a mix of concentrated juices (like grape or blackcurrant) to achieve desired colors.
- Anthocyanins: These are pigments found in many red, purple, and blue fruits and vegetables, including grapes and elderberries.
Comparing Carmine and Plant-Based Dyes
| Feature | Carmine (Cochineal Extract) | Plant-Based Dyes (e.g., Beetroot) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Female cochineal insects | Fruits, vegetables, roots |
| Vegan Status | Not vegan | Vegan |
| Color Stability | Excellent (stable against light, heat, oxidation) | Can be less stable, prone to fading with heat or light |
| Allergenic Potential | Rare but potentially severe allergic reactions possible | Generally very low allergenic potential |
| Flavor Impact | Minimal to none | Can impart a subtle flavor if used in high concentration |
| Cost | Relatively inexpensive compared to some alternatives | Varies, but can sometimes be more expensive |
Conclusion
For anyone monitoring their diet for animal-based ingredients or potential allergens, knowing what candy has carmine in it is essential. While historically a widespread and stable red food coloring, consumer education and market trends have encouraged many manufacturers to transition to plant-based alternatives. As a result, many popular candy brands no longer contain carmine. By carefully reading ingredient labels for terms like "carmine," "cochineal extract," or "E120," consumers can make informed choices that align with their dietary preferences and health needs. Choosing candies from brands like Yum Earth or Black Forest that explicitly state they use natural, vegan colors is another reliable strategy for avoiding carmine.
