Abstract
Cochineal extract is a natural red dye produced from the bodies of female insects (Dactilopius coccus or Coccus cacti). The colored principle in this extract is carminic acid. Carmine is a dye of a bright-red color obtained from the aluminium salt of carminic acid, These dyes have been widely used in the manufacture of food (drinks, meat products, dairy products, milk derivatives and confectionery), medicines, and cosmetics as a safe coloring agent. However, several cases of occupational asthma, cheilitis, and food allergy implicating cochineal extract and carmine have been reported. Erythritol is widely used as a food ingredient due to the chemical inertness, sweetness and non-toxicity. The substance is a self-affirmed generally recognized as safe. Some cases of allergic reaction to foods containing erythritol have been reported. The factors and mechanisms of allergic reaction to carminic acid and erythritol, which are substances with low molecular weight, are discussed.
