Cochineal red A

What is cochineal red A?

Cochineal red A is produced in a multi-stage chemical process known as azo coupling. This produces a typical azo group consisting of two nitrogen atoms. As a rule, cochineal red A is the sodium salt of this compound, but other parts are also permitted.

Cochineal red A is a bright scarlet-red dye that is resistant to acid and heat. It is highly soluble in water and alcohol, but poorly soluble in vegetable oils. It is stable against fruit acids.

Where is cochineal red A used?

Cochineal red A is used in various foods to give them a red color. It is only approved for certain foods and may only be added up to a certain maximum amount. The limits are between 50 and 500 mg per kilogram of food.

Foods that may contain cochineal red A include, for example

• Chorizo sausage
• Salmon substitute
• beverages
• fizzy drinks
• sweets
• Fruit jellies
• Cheese coatings
• mustard
• Food supplements
• spirits

Cochineal red A is prohibited for organic products. Instead, they are colored with aronia juice concentrate, for example.

How does cochineal red A affect the health of dogs?

The health effects of cochineal red A on dogs have not been clearly established. There are indications that cochineal red A can trigger pseudoallergies, especially in people or animals that are sensitive to acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) or benzoic acid. Pseudoallergies are allergy-like reactions that are not mediated by an immune response.

The possible symptoms of a pseudoallergy include

• Skin rash
• itching
• swelling
• Gastrointestinal complaints
• shortness of breath

It is also suspected that cochineal red A could be involved in triggering ADHD, neurodermatitis and bronchial asthma. However, there is no clear scientific evidence for this.