E 120 Carminic acid, Carmine

What is E 120?

E 120 is the E number of Carminic acid, Carmine. Red colour obtained from dried female cochineal insects, so it is not vegan. It is used in drinks, yoghurts, sweets and meat products.

Where is E 120 most commonly used?

Carmine mainly colours red liqueurs, fruit yoghurts and confectionery. It is also used in some meat products and marinades.

What is E 120 used for?

E 120 belongs to the group "Colours" and is used as colour.

• Colour: Colours add or restore colour in a food.

Which foods may contain E 120?

According to the European Commission's database, E 120 may be used in 48 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Dairy products and analogues
• Edible ices
• Fruit and vegetables
• Confectionery
• Cereals and cereal products
• Bakery wares
• Meat
• Fish and fisheries products
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
• Beverages
• Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
• Desserts
• Food supplements
• Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 120 vegan?

Not vegan: of animal origin.

Is E 120 linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 120 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Colour: E 120" or "Colour: Carminic acid, Carmine".