Learn Glossary colorant

Azorubine(E122)

Level 4Significant concernsIn Winter's Dictionary

Azorubine is a colorant — Red food coloring

Also: Carmoisine, Food Red No. 3

What it does

Red food coloring

Where you'll see it

Previously food coloring (not in US)

What the research says

May be a cancer- and tumor-causing agent according to NIOSH. Linked to hyperactivity in young children.

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: BAN
  • EU: restricted
  • Notes: Not approved in US; British and EU parliaments seeking to ban due to hyperactivity effect on children

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): May be a cancer- and tumor-causing agent according to U.S. National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)