Red 2 (Amaranth)
High ConcernAlso known as
red 2amaranthe123fd&c red no. 2
The concern
Banned in the USA since 1976 after studies indicated it may cause cancer in animals. Still permitted in some countries including Russia and EU for limited uses.
What to look for on labels
This ingredient may appear under any of the following names or codes on product labels:
- Red 2 (Amaranth)
- red 2
- amaranth
- e123
- fd&c red no. 2
Data sourced from IARC, FDA, EFSA, WHO and EWG public data. For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical or legal advice.