Cochineal red a

Cochenille red A is a bright red, water-soluble, synthetic azo dye used as a food additive (E 124). Cochenille Red A is a substitute for Cocionella (cochineal), the natural cochineal red, which consists of the dried fertilized females of Dactylopius coccus, the coccinonella scale insect. This lives on the cochineal cactus (hence the name).

The synthetic cochineal red A has a structural similarity to the red food additive amaranth (E 123).

Cochenillerot is used for Spanish chorizo sausage, salmon substitute, drinks, confectionery, fruit jellies. The substance is also used in jams and marmalades and as a colour coating for sugar-coated tablets.

In the EU, since 20 July 2010, foods containing cochineal red A must bear the label "May impair activity and attention in children". There are controversial publications about pseudoallergic reactions when the child is predisposed to them.

1. Ibero M et al (1982) Dyes, preservatives and salicylates in the induction of food intolerance and/or hypersensitivity in children. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr)10:263-268.
2. Reus KE et al (2000) Food additives as a cause of medical symptoms: relationship shown between sulfites and asthma and anaphylaxis; results of a literature review. Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd 144:1836-1839.