Amaranth
Also known as: Food Red 9, C.I. 16185
Colorants
Safety rating
Use Sparingly
Eat Away!Generally SafeUse SparinglyAvoid
Purpose and Function
Amaranth (E123) is a synthetic azo dye used to impart a red to purple color, once widely used in food production but now subject to regulatory scrutiny.
Commonly found in
- —Sweets, jellies, and candies
- —Flavored drinks and syrups
- —Cakes, pastries, and desserts
- —Ice creams, fruit-flavored yogurts, and jams
Key functions
- —Provides a red to purple color
Potential Risks and Side Effects
- 01Raised concerns about carcinogenic effects in high doses, leading to bans in some countries
- 02Can cause allergic reactions in those sensitive to azo dyes — hives, rashes, asthma-like symptoms
- 03Linked to hyperactivity in children in some studies; banned in the United States, still approved in the EU under regulated limits