Carmine Cochineal Extract: Nature’s Vibrant Red Pigment with Health Benefits

Introduction to Carmine Cochineal Extract

Carmine cochineal extract​ is a natural red dye derived from the Dactylopius coccus insect, sustainably harvested from cactus plants in South America. Used since Aztec times, this premium pigment offers:

✔ Brilliant red coloration (pH stable 3-8)
✔ Natural alternative to synthetic dyes
✔ Additional health-promoting compounds

Key Specifications

E Number: E120

Color Value: ≥50% carminic acid

Solubility: Water and alcohol soluble

Benefits of cochineal extract carmine

1. Natural Food Coloring

• Superior stability compared to plant-based anthocyanins

• No aftertaste – unlike beetroot extracts

• Heat resistant up to 150°C (302°F)

2. Cosmetic Applications

• Non-comedogenic skin-safe pigment

• Long-lasting color in lipsticks and blushes

• Anti-inflammatory properties (Journal of Ethnopharmacology)

3. Pharmaceutical Uses

• Capsule and tablet coating

• Histological staining

• Traditional wound healing (Andean medicine)

4. Textile Dyeing

• Vibrant colorfast hues

• Eco-friendly alternative to chemical dyes

Cochineal extract or carmine has the following Application:

• Carmine extract [carmine (E 120) or carminic acid] is used directly in food and is also processed further to carmines. Specifications exist for cochineal extract and carmines, both of which contain carminic acid as the colouring principle.
• Cochineal extract and carmine have a long history as a dye for food, cosmetics,pharmaceuticals, and textiles.
• The insects are harvested, sun-dried and crushed. They are then put into an acidic solution that produces carminic acid. This creates a very bright red dye that can be altered with the use of borax or other solutions. The pigment that results is carmine extract, and it’s used as a red “natural color” in a range of foods and body products.

Innovative Applications

Food Industry

Yogurts & beverages; Confectionery coatings ; Meat alternatives.

Cosmeceuticals

Clean beauty lip tints; Mineral makeup; Temporary hair colors.

Nutraceuticals

Vitamin gummies; Plant-based capsules; Functional foods

Why Our Cochineal Extract Stands Out

✅ Double Purification Process – Removes insect proteins (allergens)
✅ Custom Concentration – From 2-50% carminic acid
✅ Kosher & Halal Certified – Meets religious requirements
✅ Strict QC Testing – Heavy metals, microbes, residual solvents

FAQs

Q: Is this vegan-friendly?
A: No – it’s insect-derived. For plant-based options, consider our beetroot extract.

Q: Any allergy concerns?
A: Contains carminic acid which rarely causes reactions (avoid if shellfish allergic).

Q: How does lightfastness compare to synthetic dyes?
A: Excellent – maintains 95% color after 500 lux hours (outperforms many FD&C dyes).

Q: Minimum order quantity?
A: Sample sizes (100g) to bulk quantities (tonnage) available.