E122
E122 , Azorubine / Carmoisine
Why this classification
Azo dye banned in US, Japan, Norway. EU hyperactivity warning required.
Banned or restricted in
- US
- Japan
- Norway
Common uses in industrial food
Azorubine / Carmoisine (E122) is used by food manufacturers for restoring or enhancing the colour lost during industrial processing, mainly in confectionery, sodas, sauces and convenience meals. It is most often listed in the ingredient panel as E122, Azorubine / Carmoisine, or under one of its trade names. On a NutriDécrypte product page, this additive contributes to the additives axis (20% of the overall A to E grade), and triggers a label warning when its EFSA risk level is medium or high.
If you want to limit your exposure to this additive, the simplest tactic is to read the ingredients list (not just the front-of-pack), and to favour products graded A or B in our independent catalog. Less processed, NOVA-1 or NOVA-2 categories rarely contain it.
Related additives in the same family
Other E-numbers classified as colourant in the EU food additives registry. Their risk profile and behaviour on a label are often similar.
Frequently asked questions
Is E122 (Azorubine / Carmoisine) safe?
EFSA classifies the risk level of E122 as high risk in its latest review. It is also flagged as controversial by independent toxicology reviewers, meaning the scientific consensus is contested. Several jurisdictions have restricted or banned its use, including: US, Japan, Norway. Always read the latest official opinion before drawing conclusions for your own diet, and consult a registered dietitian for medical questions.
What is E122 typically used for?
Food manufacturers use Azorubine / Carmoisine primarily for restoring or enhancing the colour lost during industrial processing, mainly in confectionery, sodas, sauces and convenience meals. You will most often find it in ultra-processed foods (NOVA group 4) and rarely in unprocessed or minimally processed products (NOVA 1 or 2).
How can I avoid E122 on a label?
Look for the code E122 or its full name Azorubine / Carmoisine in the ingredients list, usually printed in small font on the back of the pack. Cooking from raw ingredients, choosing NOVA-1 or NOVA-2 alternatives, and using the NutriDécrypte rankings to filter by grade A or B are the three most reliable strategies.