International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives: 127
Food additives Europe numbers: E127
Erythrosine (E 127) is a red food coloring commonly used in various processed foods and beverages. Here's a breakdown of its properties, applications, and safety considerations:
Function:
Erythrosine's primary function is to add a red or pink color to food products. It creates vibrant and eye-catching hues, making food visually appealing to consumers.
Source and Chemistry:
Erythrosine is a synthetic coal-tar dye, meaning it's manufactured in a lab rather than derived from natural sources.
Applications in Food:
Erythrosine finds applications in a variety of processed foods to enhance their visual appeal:
- Candy and confectionery: Especially in red candies, frosting, and decorative icings.
- Beverages: Red fruit drinks, sports drinks, and certain sodas.
- Baked goods: Pink bakery items like frosting, cake decorations, or icings.
- Dairy products: Sometimes used in yogurt tubes, flavored milks, or ice creams.
- Cereals: Can be used to add color to certain breakfast cereals.
Safety Considerations:
The safety of Erythrosine has been evaluated by various regulatory bodies:
- The FDA considers Erythrosine safe for use in food at controlled levels. It has established a specific maximum allowable usage level.
- Some studies have suggested a potential link between Erythrosine and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is inconclusive.
- People with sensitivities to certain medications or dyes might want to be cautious, especially if they experience allergic reactions to aspirin or other medications.
Alternatives:
There are natural alternatives to Erythrosine that can provide red or pink colors to food:
- Beet juice concentrate
- Red cabbage extract
- Anthocyanins (from berries)
However, these natural alternatives may not always provide the same level of vibrancy or color consistency as Erythrosine.
Consumer Choice:
- Some food manufacturers are opting for natural coloring alternatives in response to consumer interest.
- It's always a good idea to check food labels to see if Erythrosine is listed among the ingredients.
Conclusion:
Erythrosine is a widely used red food coloring that can enhance the visual appeal of processed foods. While generally considered safe by regulatory bodies, some potential safety concerns exist. If you have concerns, natural alternatives might be available depending on the food product.