Additives
Citrus Red 2 (E121): What It Is and Is It Safe?
Hazardous
Colour · Azo dye
Citrus Red 2 is a synthetic azo dye that IARC classifies in Group 2B, possibly carcinogenic to humans. It is not permitted in the EU/UK; in the US its only sanctioned use has been dyeing the skins of some oranges at a limit of 2 mg/kg. It is not permitted for colouring the flesh or juice of food.
- Category
- Colour — Azo dye
- Typically used in
- Not permitted in EU/UK food; US orange-skin colouring only.
- Regulatory status
- Not authorised in the EU/UK. IARC Group 2B carcinogen.
- Concerns flagged
-
Carcinogenicity concern
Scrannr flags Citrus Red 2 automatically when you scan a barcode.
Sources
Where this comes from
- IARC (2018) — Agents Classified by the IARC Monographs Volumes 1-123 https://monographs.iarc.who.int/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/ClassificationsAlphaOrder.pdf
Products
Products containing Citrus Red 2
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