Understanding Food Coloring Code 122: An Azo Dye
Food coloring code 122 is an international system number assigned to the synthetic red dye known as Azorubine, also frequently called Carmoisine. As an azo dye, its characteristic chemical structure includes two nitrogen atoms linked together, allowing it to produce a vibrant and stable red to brownish-red color. It was developed in the mid-20th century as a cost-effective and highly stable alternative to natural red dyes, and it is derived from coal tar. Azorubine is supplied as a water-soluble disodium salt powder, making it versatile for many food production applications. In different regions, it can be identified by its E-number (E122 in Europe) or INS number (INS 122 in India).
Why is Code 122 Used in the Food Industry?
Manufacturers use Azorubine primarily for its effectiveness in coloring and its robust properties. Unlike some natural colorants that may fade over time or react to different conditions, E122 offers excellent stability.
Key reasons for its use include:
- Enhancing visual appeal: Many food items are naturally colorless or lose their vibrant color during processing. E122 helps restore or add an attractive, bright red hue to make products more appealing to consumers.
- Versatility in products: Its solubility and stability make it suitable for a wide array of food products, including those that undergo heat treatment during fermentation.
- Cost-effectiveness: As a synthetic dye, Azorubine is often more economical to produce and use than many natural color alternatives.
Common Products Containing Food Coloring Code 122
Look for E122 on the labels of various supermarket products, especially those with red coloring. Common applications include:
- Beverages (soft drinks, flavored waters, juices)
- Confectionery (candies, sweets, gummies)
- Baked goods (cakes, pastries)
- Dairy products (flavored yogurts, some ice creams)
- Processed foods (jams, sauces, soups)
- Desserts (jellies, puddings)
Health Concerns and Regulatory Status
Despite its widespread use, food coloring code 122 has been the subject of controversy due to potential health implications. A significant UK government-funded study (the 'Southampton study' in 2007) suggested a link between a mix of artificial colorings, including E122, and increased hyperactivity in some children. This led to mandatory labeling requirements in the European Union.
Potential Side Effects
- Hyperactivity: Studies indicate that Azorubine, particularly when combined with preservatives like sodium benzoate, may exacerbate hyperactivity and attention issues in children.
- Allergic Reactions: As an azo dye, E122 can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Symptoms can include skin rashes, hives, itching, or even asthmatic symptoms, especially for those sensitive to aspirin.
Global Regulation Differences
Regulatory bodies worldwide have taken different stances on Azorubine's use based on their interpretations of safety data. This has created a patchwork of regulations that consumers need to be aware of.
| Region | Regulatory Status | Key Action | Health Concerns | Labeling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| European Union | Permitted (Restricted) | Established a warning label requirement. | Linked to hyperactivity in children. | Products must state: "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children." |
| United States | Banned (Delisted) | Delisted from food use in 1963 due to lack of interest in further safety studies. | Not used in food. | Not applicable. |
| Canada | Banned | Not permitted for use in food products. | Hyperactivity concerns. | Not applicable. |
| Japan | Banned | Not permitted for use in food products. | Hyperactivity concerns. | Not applicable. |
Natural Alternatives to Red Dyes
For those who wish to avoid synthetic colorants like Azorubine, several natural and plant-based alternatives can provide a red hue.
- Beetroot Red (E162): Extracted from beets, this natural colorant provides a red hue and is used in a range of products.
- Anthocyanins (E163): These are natural pigments found in many fruits and vegetables, such as berries, red cabbage, and grapes. The color can vary with pH.
- Hibiscus: A natural extract from hibiscus flowers can provide a pink color.
- Lycopene (E160d): A vibrant red carotenoid pigment found in tomatoes and other red fruits.
- Cochineal (E120): A crimson-colored dye derived from the cochineal insect. While natural, it may also trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.
Conclusion
Food coloring code 122, or Azorubine, is a synthetic red dye that has served the food industry for decades due to its color stability and affordability. However, awareness of its potential health risks, particularly its link to allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children, has grown significantly. This has resulted in a fragmented global regulatory landscape, with some countries permitting its use with warnings while others have banned it outright. Consumers can check product labels for E122 or the name Carmoisine to make informed choices. For those seeking to avoid synthetic dyes, a number of effective and appealing natural alternatives are widely available.
External Resource
For more detailed technical information on Azorubine, including its chemical properties, see its entry on Wikipedia.
