orchil
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | orchil |
| English name | orchil |
| INS/E number | INS 182 |
| Functional class | Colour |
| Year adopted | To be added. |
| Approved by | To be added. |
What is it?
Orchil (INS 182) is a natural purple-red pigment extracted from certain lichens (e.g. Roccella species), traditionally prepared by ammonia/alkali treatment of lichen; historically used as a food and textile dye.
Source
Natural：地衣（Roccella 等属）
Why is it used?
- Provides natural purple-red/blue shades
- Used for traditional food colouring
- Clean-label claim
- Harmonises with natural berry hues
- Permitted in some jurisdictions
Common Foods
- Confectionery
- Beverages
- Liqueurs
- Traditional foods
- Decorative products
Safety
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)
Concerns：
- 加工涉及氨/碱处理需控制残留
- 现代使用较少、法规认可有限
Usage Standard
China：GB 2760（按植物提取物色素管理）
International：
- EU 未统一列入 Annex II，依各成员批准
- 一般作为天然提取物依色素法规使用
- Codex GSFA (INS 182)
- FSANZ Food Standards Code (Orchil, 182)
In a nutshell
Orchil is a traditional natural purple-red/blue lichen pigment that is safe but of limited modern use.
Consumer Advice
Orchil (also called orcein) is a red dye extracted from lichens, historically used to colour food and cosmetics. It is not an authorised food colour in modern regulations such as the EU or China's GB 2760, so it should not appear on the label of a compliant food. If a product claims to contain it, treat the claim with caution. There is no evidence of serious health risks, but because it has not been systematically evaluated for food use, foods containing unauthorised colours are best avoided.
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.