That bright red in your strawberry yoghurt, sweets or lipstick may come from an unexpected source: insects. Carmine – also called cochineal, carminic acid, Natural Red 4 or E120 – is one of the most debated additives among Muslims.
What is carmine?
Carmine is made from the dried bodies of female cochineal insects, which live on cacti, mainly in Peru and the Canary Islands. Roughly 70,000 insects are needed to make one pound (about 450 g) of dye. It is prized because it is stable, vivid and natural.
Where it is found
- Yoghurts, ice creams and strawberry milkshakes
- Red and pink sweets, cakes and icing
- Juices, sausages and some processed meats
- Lipsticks, blushers and eyeshadows
Is it halal?
Scholars differ:
- Not permissible: the Hanafi and Shafi’i schools generally hold that eating insects (other than locusts) is not permitted. Many halal certifiers, including JAKIM (Malaysia), do not accept carmine in certified food.
- Permissible: some Maliki scholars permit certain insects, and some argue the processing transforms the substance. On this basis, some certifiers treat it as acceptable or doubtful (mashbooh).
Because of the difference of opinion, many Muslims avoid carmine in food as a precaution.
Carmine in cosmetics
Scholars are generally more lenient about products used on the skin and washed off. Lipstick is different, because some is swallowed, so many people choose carmine-free lip products.
Halal alternatives
Beetroot red (E162), paprika extract (E160c), anthocyanins (E163) from purple vegetables and lycopene (E160d) are plant-based reds. Synthetic colours like Allura Red (E129) are also free of animal sources.
Find certified brands in our halal food and halal cosmetics directories.
Frequently asked questions
Is E120 the same as Red 40?
No. E120 is carmine from insects. Red 40 (E129, Allura Red) is synthetic.
How do I spot carmine on a label?
Look for E120, carmine, cochineal, carminic acid or Natural Red 4.
Can carmine cause allergies?
Yes, rarely, it can cause allergic reactions, including severe ones.
Make carmine-free food or cosmetics? Add your free listing – list your brand free.
This article is general information, not medical or religious advice. Please speak to a qualified professional about your own situation, and to a qualified scholar about specific religious rulings.