Azorubine / Carmoisine (E122)

Type of additive
(Glossary)		Colorants
E NumberE122
Chemical Formula
C20H12N2Na2O7S2
Also Known AsCarmoisine
Food Red 3
Azorubin S
Brillantcarmoisin O
Acid Red 14
C.I. 14720
Azorubine

Purpose and Function

Azorubine, also known as Carmoisine, is a synthetic red azo dye used extensively in the food industry to impart a red to magenta color to a variety of products. It is favored for its vibrant hue, cost-effectiveness, and stability. Its primary functions include:

  • Colorant: Azorubine is widely used to color food products such as candies, jams, jellies, yogurts, soft drinks, and bakery items. It provides a strong red hue, making it ideal for enhancing the appearance of various foods and beverages. It is also used in savory items like sausages and sauces to provide a consistent color profile.
  • Blending Agent: Often combined with other dyes like Tartrazine (E102) or Sunset Yellow FCF (E110), Azorubine can produce a range of shades from red to brown, making it versatile for use in multi-colored products. This is particularly useful in confectionery and beverages.
  • Cosmetic and Pharmaceutical Uses: Beyond food applications, Azorubine is also used as a colorant in cosmetics, such as lipsticks and eyeshadows, and in pharmaceutical products like syrups and pills.

Azorubine is appreciated for its stability under heat, light, and varying pH conditions, which ensures that the color remains consistent throughout the product’s shelf life.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Azorubine, like other synthetic azo dyes, has been the subject of health and safety evaluations due to potential adverse effects. While generally considered safe when used within regulated limits, there are a few concerns:

  • Hyperactivity in Children: Studies have suggested a possible link between the consumption of synthetic azo dyes, including Azorubine, and increased hyperactivity in children. As a result, foods containing Azorubine must carry a warning label in the European Union, indicating that the dye may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.
  • Allergic Reactions: Azorubine can cause allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with a sensitivity to aspirin or those suffering from asthma. Symptoms can range from mild skin rashes and itching to more severe respiratory issues.
  • Intolerance: Some individuals may experience intolerance to azo dyes, presenting as gastrointestinal discomfort, headaches, or skin reactions. These cases are relatively rare but are significant enough to warrant caution in sensitive populations.
  • Carcinogenic Concerns: There have been concerns over the potential carcinogenicity of some synthetic dyes, but current evidence does not conclusively link Azorubine to cancer in humans. Regulatory bodies such as the EFSA and FDA have deemed it safe at prescribed levels, but ongoing research is recommended to continually assess its safety.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has set an acceptable daily intake (ADI) for Azorubine at 4 mg/kg body weight. This level is considered safe for most consumers, but those with known sensitivities or concerns about artificial additives may wish to limit their intake.