The Chemical Composition of E123 (Amaranth)
E123 is a synthetic colorant known by the common name Amaranth, though it has no connection to the plant of the same name. Its chemical makeup is a key point of discussion regarding its safety and regulation. The primary component of this additive is trisodium 2-hydroxy-1-(4-sulfonato-1-naphthylazo)naphthalene-3,6-disulfonate. This complex name describes its structure, which includes a central 'azo' group (-N=N-) that links two aromatic naphthalene rings together. The molecule is also functionalized with hydroxyl (-OH) and sulfonate (-SO3-) groups, which, along with the sodium ions ($Na^+$), make it water-soluble.
Synthesis and Raw Materials
The raw material for the production of Amaranth is sourced from petroleum derivatives, specifically coal tar derivatives in older methods, but modern synthesis relies on petroleum byproducts. The manufacturing process involves coupling two chemical compounds: 4-amino-1-naphthalenesulphonic acid and 3-hydroxy-2,7-naphthalenedisulphonic acid. The resulting compound is then stabilized as a trisodium salt, which gives the final product its reddish-brown to dark purple, water-soluble powder form. In some manufacturing processes, the dye may also be complexed with aluminum, which would create an "aluminum lake" color, though this is not always disclosed on labels.
Physical and Chemical Properties
E123 is valued for its vivid red to reddish-purple hue and its stability under various conditions. It is stable against light and heat, making it suitable for a wide array of food processing applications. However, its color can be affected by the presence of fruit acids and it is susceptible to reducing agents, which means it is not ideal for fermented foods. The dye is highly water-soluble, which facilitates its use in many food and cosmetic products.
E123's Controversial History and Regulation
E123's history is marked by regulatory shifts driven by safety concerns. Most notably, a Russian study in 1971 raised questions about its potential carcinogenicity in rats. Subsequent, larger studies by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the mid-1970s did not conclusively prove a direct cancer link at typical consumption levels, but one study showed an increase in tumors in female rats at very high doses. Public pressure and lingering doubt led the FDA to ban the dye in the US in 1976. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), however, has conducted multiple re-evaluations since then, establishing an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) and refining its exposure assessments. Today, E123 is still legally used in certain countries and for specific food applications, though its use is restricted and closely monitored.
Modern Applications and Alternatives
Despite its ban in the US, E123 continues to be used in countries like the United Kingdom and throughout the European Union for specific food products, including certain alcoholic beverages and fish roe. It is also employed in non-food applications, such as for dyeing textiles, leather, and certain cosmetic products like lipsticks. Due to its controversial status and limited use, other red food dyes have become popular alternatives in the food industry. Allura Red (E129), for instance, was developed as a synthetic replacement, particularly in regions where E123 is prohibited. Natural alternatives like beetroot red (E162) also serve as options for manufacturers seeking to avoid synthetic additives.
Comparison of Red Food Dyes (E123 vs. Alternatives)
| Feature | E123 (Amaranth) | E129 (Allura Red AC) | E162 (Beetroot Red) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origin | Synthetic (Petroleum Derivatives) | Synthetic (Petroleum Derivatives) | Natural (Extracted from Beets) |
| Chemical Type | Azo Dye | Azo Dye | Betalain |
| Color | Dark red to reddish-purple | Red | Red to reddish-purple |
| Stability | Good stability to heat and light | Good stability to heat and light | Poor stability to heat and light; color degrades over time |
| pH Sensitivity | Stable in acid, but darkens in alkali. | Stable across a wide pH range | Very sensitive to pH and heat; prone to fading |
| Regulatory Status | Banned in the US; Restricted in EU. | Approved in US, EU, and other countries. | Generally recognized as safe (GRAS); widely permitted. |
| Health Concerns | Linked to hyperactivity and potential carcinogenicity in animal studies at high doses. | Associated with hyperactivity in some studies, but widely used as a replacement for E123. | Considered safe with no significant health concerns. |
Conclusion
In summary, E123, known as Amaranth, is a synthetic red azo dye derived from petroleum byproducts. Its chemical composition, primarily trisodium 2-hydroxy-1-(4-sulfonato-1-naphthylazo)naphthalene-3,6-disulfonate, gives it strong coloring properties and stability. However, the dye carries a contentious history, particularly a 1976 ban in the United States following controversial animal studies. While regulations vary globally, its use is more restricted than in the past, leading many manufacturers to adopt alternatives like Allura Red (E129) and natural colorants like beetroot red (E162). The decision to use, consume, or avoid products containing E123 ultimately depends on local regulations and individual preferences regarding food additives.
Additional Resources
For more in-depth information on food additives and their regulation, the European Food Safety Authority provides comprehensive assessments. For a detailed scientific opinion on the re-evaluation of Amaranth (E 123) from 2010, refer to the EFSA Journal.
Key takeaways
- E123 is a Synthetic Azo Dye: E123, also known as Amaranth, is an artificial food coloring manufactured from petroleum derivatives.
- Not Related to Amaranth Grain: Despite the name, this additive has no relation to the natural, edible amaranth plant.
- Banned in the United States: The U.S. FDA banned E123 in 1976 due to concerns over its safety, stemming from high-dose animal studies suggesting a potential cancer link.
- Permitted in Some Countries: E123 is still approved for use in certain food categories within the European Union and other regions, but under strict regulations and acceptable daily intake (ADI) limits.
- Chemical Composition: The dye's chemical name is trisodium 2-hydroxy-1-(4-sulfonato-1-naphthylazo)naphthalene-3,6-disulfonate, defining it as a water-soluble salt with an azo group.
- Commonly Found in Certain Foods: Where permitted, E123 is used in products like specific alcoholic beverages, fish roe, and certain confectioneries to provide a vibrant red color.
FAQs
Q: Is E123 a natural food coloring? A: No, E123 (Amaranth) is a synthetic chemical dye and is not related to the natural amaranth plant.
Q: Why was E123 banned in the United States? A: E123 was banned by the US FDA in 1976 following animal studies that raised concerns about its potential carcinogenicity, despite later debates on the study methodology.
Q: What is the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for E123 in the EU? A: The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) established an ADI for Amaranth of 0.15 mg/kg body weight per day.
Q: What is the chemical formula for E123? A: The chemical formula for E123 is $C{20}H{11}N_2Na3O{10}S_3$.
Q: What foods contain E123 where it is still permitted? A: In regions where it is allowed, E123 is typically used in specific products such as aperitif wines, certain spirit drinks, and fish roe.
Q: Can E123 cause allergic reactions? A: Yes, like other azo dyes, E123 may cause allergic reactions, skin rashes, or asthma-like symptoms in sensitive individuals.
Q: What are some common alternatives to E123? A: Alternatives include other synthetic red dyes like Allura Red (E129) and natural options such as beetroot red (E162).
Q: What are the primary raw materials used to produce E123? A: E123 is primarily synthesized from petroleum byproducts through the coupling of specific naphthalene-based compounds.
Q: Does E123 have non-food applications? A: Yes, E123 is also used as a dye for coloring textiles, leather, paper, and cosmetics.
Q: Can consuming E123 affect children's behavior? A: Some studies have linked certain food dyes, including some azo dyes, to hyperactivity in children, leading to warnings required on products containing them in the EU.
