Many people assume that food dyes are simply chemical compounds, but a surprising number of colors and glazes used in the food industry have animal origins. For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, accidentally consuming these ingredients is a common pitfall. The key to navigating this is becoming an expert label-reader and understanding the alternative names and E-numbers that signal animal-derived products.
The Most Common Non-Vegetarian Dyes and Additives
Carmine (Cochineal Extract - E120)
Often the most startling revelation for new vegetarians is that the vibrant red and pink hues in many products are not from fruit. Carmine, also known by names such as cochineal extract, crimson lake, and Natural Red 4 (or E120 in the EU), is a red pigment extracted from the crushed bodies of female cochineal insects. These tiny scale insects, which live on prickly pear cacti, are harvested, dried, and then processed to extract carminic acid, which creates the red dye. This ingredient can be found in a wide variety of items, including certain candies, yogurts, juices, ice creams, and even some cosmetics like lipstick and blush. Due to potential allergic reactions, the U.S. FDA now requires companies to specifically list "cochineal extract" or "carmine" on labels.
Shellac (Confectioner's Glaze - E904)
If you have ever eaten a shiny, glossy candy, or taken a pill with a slick coating, there is a chance it was covered in shellac. Also known as confectioner's glaze (or E904), shellac is a resin secreted by the female lac beetle native to the forests of India and Thailand. The secretion is collected, melted, and processed into a varnish-like glaze that creates a moisture barrier to keep food from drying out and to provide a polished appearance. The Vegetarian Society of the UK has updated its guidance, and as of 2022, no longer certifies products containing shellac with their vegetarian trademark. Shellac can be found on many types of candies, chocolates, coffee beans, and even fruits like apples.
Gelatin
This is perhaps one of the most widely known non-vegetarian ingredients. Gelatin is a gelling agent made from boiling the skin, tendons, ligaments, and bones of animals, primarily cows and pigs, to extract collagen. It is a colorless and flavorless thickener used in many foods to create a specific texture. Common products containing gelatin include gummy candies, marshmallows, jellies (like Jell-O), and some yogurts and desserts. Thankfully, many vegetarian and vegan alternatives exist, such as agar-agar (from seaweed) and pectin (from fruits).
Isinglass
While not a dye used to impart color directly, isinglass is a processing aid that many vegetarians and vegans should be aware of. It is a type of collagen obtained from the dried swim bladders of fish, especially sturgeon. Isinglass is used as a fining agent in the production of some beers and wines to clarify the liquid and remove sediment. Because only trace amounts may remain in the final product, labeling is often not required, making it challenging to identify. Websites like Barnivore.com can be a helpful resource for identifying vegan-friendly beverages.
Bone Char
Bone char is not a dye itself but is used in the processing of certain products. It is the result of charring animal bones (often cattle) and is used as a decolorizing filter in the production of some white sugars. This means some refined white sugar may not be vegetarian-friendly. For those wishing to avoid bone char, opting for sugars labeled as organic or vegan, which typically use granular activated carbon instead, is recommended.
How to Identify Non-Vegetarian Dyes on Labels
Reading ingredient labels carefully is the best defense against consuming animal-derived dyes. Here are some key identifiers:
- Carmine: Look for "carmine," "cochineal extract," "Natural Red 4," or "E120." Be aware that some companies may simply state "color added" or "natural color" on older products, though regulations have improved.
- Shellac: Check for "shellac," "confectioner's glaze," or "E904." Products with a shiny coating are a red flag.
- Gelatin: The term "gelatin" is typically explicit on labels for products like gummies and marshmallows. In medications or supplements, it may be listed as part of a capsule's coating.
- Isinglass: Because this is often a processing agent, it is unlikely to be on the label for beer and wine. Checking for specific vegan or kosher certifications is the most reliable method.
- Bone Char: This is not typically listed on sugar packaging. Look for vegan-certified, organic, or unrefined sugar products to be certain.
Navigating the Labeling Landscape: A Comparison
To help identify the most common animal-derived additives, here is a quick reference table:
| Dye / Additive Name | Common Alternative Names & E-Numbers | Animal Source | Common Product Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carmine | Cochineal extract, Crimson lake, Natural Red 4, E120 | Crushed female cochineal insects | Yogurt, red candy, juices, cosmetics |
| Shellac | Confectioner's glaze, E904 | Female lac beetles (resin) | Hard-shelled candies, pill coatings, glossy fruit |
| Gelatin | Collagen hydrolysate | Skin, bones, and connective tissue of pigs and cattle | Gummy candies, marshmallows, yogurt |
| Isinglass | Fish maw | Swim bladders of certain fish | Some beers and wines |
| Bone Char | Natural Carbon (used for filtering) | Charred animal bones | Some refined white sugar |
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
For vegetarians, the journey to a more conscientious diet goes beyond avoiding obvious meat products. Many processed foods contain animal-derived dyes and processing aids that are not always immediately apparent. The most common offenders—carmine, shellac, and gelatin—are relatively easy to spot on modern labels, thanks to improved regulations. However, other ingredients like isinglass in beverages and bone char in sugar require a more diligent approach, often necessitating a search for vegan or certified-friendly products. By understanding what dyes are not vegetarian and how they appear on labels, consumers can ensure their dietary choices align with their ethical principles. For those who want to research further, organizations like Four Paws offer extensive lists of animal-derived ingredients to avoid.
