E121 - Citrus Red 2

Citrus Red 2, Citrus Red No. 2 is an artificial dye. As a food dye, it has been permitted by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 1956 to color the skin of oranges. Citrus Red 2 is listed by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as a group 2B carcinogen, a substance "possibly carcinogenic to humans". E121.

Citrus Red 2 is an orange to yellow solid or a dark red powder with a melting point of 156°C. It is not soluble in water, but is readily soluble in many organic solvents. Citrus Red 2 is used to color early-season, ripe fruit that haven't been exposed to cold enough weather to produce the characteristic orange skin. Used to color skins of Florida oranges.

Chemical Structure and Name

Source: Wikipedia

May cause cancer and chromosomal damage. FDA has recommended a ban.

Disclaimer:

Side effects, traditional and medicinal uses are stated in different web resources. | The list of Food Additives/Preservatives/Ingredients included in this section and listed is subject to change as chemicals are added or removed by the Regulatory Authorities. FoodChem or Nyro Research Foundation cannot guarantee that this list is complete. | Government approvals and other regulatory details are subject to change. | This entry was added in good faith for public awareness. For current updated details please check with relevant authorities. | This blog is intended to be of general interest and public awareness which may or may not compliment studies from various sources. | In case of any health concerns please consult appropriate professionals and experts.| The content provided on this web site is for informational purposes only. | This information should not be considered complete or up to date and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation or advice of a legal, medical or any other professional. | The data has been compiled from many sources including traditional hearsay. | Some of it is ancestral. Some of it has not been tested in any laboratory.