amaranth
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | amaranth |
| English name | amaranth |
| INS/E number | INS 123 |
| Functional class | Colour |
| Year adopted | 1964 |
| Approved by | European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
Amaranth (INS 123) is a synthetic azo red-violet colour, also as aluminium lake, once widely used.
Source
Industrial：重氮化-偶合合成后纯化
Why is it used?
- Provides a red-violet colour to beverages and confectionery
- Strong tinctorial power and stability
Common Foods
- Beverages
- Confectionery
- Jellies
- Bakery products
- Canned goods
Safety
JECFA 设定较低的 ADI，在规定限量内可安全使用；但部分国家（如美国）已禁用。
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-0.5 mg/kg bw
Concerns：
- 美国等已禁用
- 高剂量动物实验有不良影响报道
Usage Standard
China：GB 2760
International：
- EU 1333/2008 Annex II (E 123)
- 未获 FDA 批准（美国禁用）
- Codex GSFA (INS 123)
- FSANZ (123)
In a nutshell
Amaranth is a synthetic red-violet colour with a low JECFA ADI; banned in the US.
Consumer Advice
Amaranth is a synthetic azo dye used as a red colour. It is approved in the European Union (E123) only for a few products such as aperitif wines and caviar, and is permitted in China within limits, but it has been banned in the United States since 1976 because of possible carcinogenicity in animal studies. At permitted levels it is considered safe in countries where it is allowed. Despite the name, it is a synthetic dye and unrelated to the amaranth plant.
Dietary Restrictions
- Vegan: ✅
- Halal: ✅
- Kosher: ✅
Allergens
✅ Free from common allergens
Disclaimer
The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.