Cochineal extract
Sean Cate
Sean Cate
August 7, 2024 ·  3 min read

13 Foods That Could Contain Cochineal Bug Extract For Its Color

Cochineal extract, also known as carmine, natural red 4, or E120, is a natural dye derived from the cochineal bug. Despite its “icky” origins, this FDA-approved additive is widely used for its vibrant red color. Here, we explore the history, production, and usage of cochineal extract in various food products, along with addressing common concerns and misconceptions.

A Brief History of Cochineal Extract

Cochineal insects, the white dots on this cactus, are found across Latin America
Credit: Science Photo Library

Cochineal extract has a rich history dating back to the Aztecs, who first discovered its use for creating vibrant red dyes. When the Spanish arrived in the Americas, they capitalized on this discovery and monopolized the cochineal trade, exporting the dye to Europe where it became highly valued for its color and longevity.1

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How Cochineal Extract is Made

Carmine was first used by the Maya and Aztecs
Credit: Getty

The dye is made from the dried bodies of female cochineal bugs, which are harvested mainly in Peru and the Canary Islands. The bugs feed on prickly pear cacti, and after being collected, they are dried, crushed, and processed with an acidic alcohol solution to produce carminic acid, the primary coloring agent.2 It takes about 70,000 bugs to produce one pound of dye.3

Side Effects and Concerns

The insects are dried and then crushed to produce the red colouring
Credit: Science Photo Library

While cochineal extract is safe for most people, it can cause allergic reactions in others. Additionally, it is not suitable for vegans, vegetarians, or those following kosher diets due to its animal origin.4 The FDA requires it to be listed explicitly on ingredient labels to inform consumers.5

Addressing Misinformation

Beetroots are used to produce a food coloring called betanin
Credit: Getty

Cochineal extract is a natural product with a long history of safe use. However, some consumers may still find the idea of insect-derived food coloring unappetizing. It’s important to note that alternative synthetic dyes, such as Red No. 2 and Red No. 40, come with their own health risks, making carmine a safer, more natural choice.6

13 Foods That May Contain Cochineal Extract

Dried cochineal insects — shown here in the center of the photo — can be processed to create several natural dyes such as carmine and cochineal extract. These products get their red hue from carminic acid, a chemical found within the insect.
Credit: Getty

Finding exact foods with cochineal extract can be challenging, but it is commonly found in the following categories:

1. Yogurts

yogurt cups with strawberries on them
Credit: Pixabay

Many fruit-flavored yogurts use cochineal extract to achieve their pink or red hue.

2. Ice Creams

reddish ice cream
Credit: Pixabay

Strawberry and other red-colored ice creams often contain this dye.

3. Candies

red candies
Credit: Pixabay

Red candies, including gummy bears and jelly beans, frequently use carmine.

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4. Beverages

glass of Campari on a counter
Credit: Pixabay

Some fruit-flavored drinks and alcoholic beverages, like Campari, include cochineal extract for color.

5. Desserts

Red Velvet Cake
Credit: Pixabay

Red velvet cake, strawberry mousse, and other red or pink desserts may use this coloring.

6. Canned Fruits

strawberries and cherries
Credit: Pixabay

Canned cherries and other preserved red fruits often contain cochineal extract.

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7. Meat Products

sausages lined up on a grill
Credit: Pixabay

Some processed meats, like sausages and hot dogs, use carmine for a more appealing color.

8. Sauces and Dressings

assorted homemade vinaigrettes
Credit: Pixabay

Certain red sauces and salad dressings use cochineal extract for color enhancement.

9. Baked Goods

red velvet cupcakes
Credit: Pixabay

Red-tinted pastries, cupcakes, and donuts may contain this natural dye.

10. Jams and Jellies

red currant jam
Credit: Pixabay

Strawberry, raspberry, and other red fruit jams frequently use cochineal extract.

11. Dairy Products

dairy products
Credit: Pixabay

Some flavored milks and dairy-based smoothies use carmine.

12. Cheeses

assorted cheeses of different colors
Credit: Pixabay

Certain processed cheeses and cheese spreads include cochineal for a reddish tint.

13. Lipsticks

red lipstick being applied
Credit: Pixabay

While not a food, it’s worth noting that many lipsticks use cochineal extract for its vibrant red color.

Conclusion

bright red smeared
Credit: Pexels

Cochineal extract, derived from the cochineal bug, is a widely used natural dye found in many red and pink food products. Despite its origins, it is a safe and effective coloring agent, though it may not be suitable for everyone due to allergies or dietary restrictions. Understanding its presence in food products can help consumers make informed choices.

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Sources

  1. How Carmine, the Red Dye Made From Bugs, Makes It Into Your Food.” Recipes. Katie Carman.
  2. Scientists Are Making Cochineal, a Red Dye From Bugs, in the Lab.” Smithsonian Mag. Brittney J. Miller. March 29, 2022.
  3. The Truth About Red Food Dye Made from Bugs.” Live Science. Luke Yoquinto. October 21, 2022.
  4. Access Data
  5. Is it true that some candies are coloured with insect extract?MC Gill. Joe Schwarcz PhD. March 20, 2017.
  6. Why you may have been eating insects your whole life.” BBC