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E122: Azorubine

Food Red 3, CI 14720

Origin:
Synthetic azo dye. See here for a background on azo dyes.

Function & characteristics:
Red food colour. Very soluble in water.

Products:
Many products.

Daily intake:
Up to 4 mg/kg body weight.

Side effects:
Since it is an azo dye, it may elicit intolerance in people intolerant to salicylates. Additionally, it is a histamine liberator, and may intensify symptoms of asthma. In combination with benzoates, it is also implicated in hyperactivity in children.

Dietary restrictions:
None; E122 can be consumed by all religious groups, vegans and vegetarians.