Citrus red 2

International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives: 121

Food additives Europe numbers:E121 

Citrus Red 2 is a synthetic dye historically used as a food coloring agent, but its use is controversial due to potential health concerns. Here's a breakdown:

Function:

• Primarily, Citrus Red 2 functioned as a coloring agent added to enhance the red or orange color of the peel in some citrus fruits, particularly oranges.

Safety Debate:

• The safety of Citrus Red 2 for human consumption is a subject of debate:
  • Approved for Use (Historically): In the past, it was approved for use in some countries, including the US, where the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sanctioned its use in 1956.
  • Potential Carcinogen Concerns: However, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified Citrus Red 2 as a group 2B carcinogen, meaning it's "possibly carcinogenic to humans." This classification is based on animal studies where high doses of the dye were linked to an increased risk of tumors.
  • Limited Research: It's important to note that these studies involved much higher concentrations than those typically found on the surface of oranges treated with Citrus Red 2. More research is needed to fully understand the risks at the low levels humans might consume.

Limited Use or Banned:

• Due to safety concerns, the use of Citrus Red 2 in food has declined:
  • Regulatory Actions: Some countries and regions have banned or restricted its use in food products.
  • Alternative Coloring Methods: The citrus industry has also shifted towards alternative methods for coloring oranges, such as using natural pigments from other fruits or modifying growing conditions to enhance natural coloration.

Not Used in Most Modern Food:

• The chance of encountering Citrus Red 2 in modern food is relatively low, especially in regions with regulations restricting its use.