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Ingredient Guide

🇬🇧 Carmine on Food Labels in UK

Carmine is permitted with proper declaration in United Kingdom: declare as "cochineal (E120) or carminic acid (E120)" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Red coloring derived from cochineal insects, used in yoghurt, juice, and confectionery. In United Kingdom, Carmine is regulated under Retained EU Law & UK FIC as a food coloring. Same EU-derived rules apply. FSA confirms carmine must be declared by name. Vegan certification bodies prohibit its use.

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "cochineal (E120) or carminic acid (E120)" in the ingredient list
  • Declare with functional class: "coloring" and E-number E120
  • Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
  • Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources
Common Violations
  • Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "cochineal (E120) or carminic acid (E120)"
  • Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Carmine
  • Omitting the E-number E120 where required
  • Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
  • Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Carmine content
Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"coloring: cochineal (E120) or carminic acid (E120)"
"cochineal (E120) or carminic acid (E120)" in ingredient list
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... cochineal (E120) or carminic acid (E120) ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (Natural Red 4, Carminic acid) without the approved declaration name
Ingredient list with "Carmine" without functional class or E-number
"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required
How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Carmine and all its common names (Cochineal, Natural Red 4, Carminic acid, CI Natural Red 4) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under UK rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How must Carmine be declared on food labels in UK?

Declare as "cochineal (E120) or carminic acid (E120)" in the ingredient list. Same EU-derived rules apply. FSA confirms carmine must be declared by name. Vegan certification bodies prohibit its use.

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Carmine?

Carmine may appear under the following names: Cochineal, Natural Red 4, Carminic acid, CI Natural Red 4, E120, Crimson Lake. Common hidden sources include: Strawberry yoghurt, Red fruit juices, Pink grapefruit drinks, Maraschino cherries, Red-tinted meat products, Some wines.

Is Carmine banned or restricted in any market?

Requires mandatory warnings in: US.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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