E123 - Amaranth

Amaranth, Azorubin S is a dark red to purple azo dye used as a food dye and to color cosmetics. The name was taken from amaranth grain, a plant distinguished by its red color and edible protein-rich seeds. Amaranth is an anionic dye. It can be applied to natural and synthetic fibers, leather, paper, and phenol-formaldehyde resins. As a food additive it has E number E123. Amaranth usually comes as a trisodium salt. It has the appearance of reddish-brown, dark red to purple water-soluble powder that decomposes at 120 °C without melting. Since 1976 Amaranth has been banned in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a suspected carcinogen. Its use is still legal in some countries, notably in the United Kingdom where it is most commonly used to give Glacé cherries their distinctive color.

Chemical Structure and Name

E123 is associated with asthma and eczema, as well as hyperactivity in children. There have also been some queries about the possibility of E123 being carcinogenic. Individuals with intolerance to salicylates may find that they are intolerant to E123, due to the colouring being an azo dye. E123 is banned in many countries including Austria, Russia, and Norway.

Food and drinks that may include E123:

• cake mixes
• jelly crystals
• tinned fruit
• gravy granules
• soups
• desserts
• wines
• spirits

Source: Wikipedia

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.