Food-Info.net> E-numbers > E100-200

E123: Amaranth

Food Red 9, CI 16185

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 0.5 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. A connection between tumours and amaranth has been established in rats, but not (un)proven in humans. Nevertheless, many countries have restricted the use pending further tests, and the ADI has been reduced to 0.5 mg/kg.

Dietary restrictions:
None; E123 can be consumed by all religious groups, vegans and vegetarians.