Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
Allura Red AC (food colorant E129) is a dark red powder initially derived from coal tar. It was developed in 1971 by Allied Chemical Corporation, which also gave the substance its name.
Today, E129 is mainly produced from petroleum-derived materials.
The synthetic colorant E129 is water-soluble and is primarily used in the form of its sodium salt, though calcium and potassium salts may also be used. Initially, E129 was introduced in the United States as a substitute for the hazardous colorant E123 (amaranth).
The chemical formula of additive E129 is: C18H14N2Na2O8S2.
Effects on the Body
Risks of additive E129
Additive E129 is currently considered one of the safest azo dyes. It poses minimal health risks but is strictly contraindicated for individuals with aspirin sensitivity.
E129 may sometimes contribute to symptoms of attention deficit and increased hyperactivity in children.
There were earlier concerns about the potential carcinogenicity of E129 (its ability to cause cancer). However, studies have shown that products containing E129 do not present a carcinogenic hazard. The concerns were linked to the manufacturing process of E129, which involves para-cresidine—a known carcinogen. Nonetheless, no residues of para-cresidine have been detected in the final product.
The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) for Allura Red AC of 0–7 mg/kg body weight. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) confirmed this level in 2009 and again in 2015, stating that there is no reason to revise the ADI based on current data.
The EFSA additives panel also noted in its evaluation of E129 that no genotoxicity or carcinogenicity was identified.
However, recent animal studies have shown that chronic exposure to the dye increases susceptibility to intestinal disorders in mice and can damage DNA.
The relevance of these animal study findings to human health remains uncertain and requires further investigation.
Benefits of additive E129
Additive E129 is not naturally present in the human body. Currently, there is no authoritative research indicating any health benefit from the colorant Allura Red AC.
Uses
In the food industry, additive E129 is used in the production of processed foods, cakes, biscuits, jelly mixes, breakfast cereals, beverages, and other products.
Other applications of Allura Red AC include:
- In the cosmetics industry — for producing lipsticks, blushes, and other makeup products;
- In the pharmaceutical industry — as a colorant in the manufacture of certain medications.
Legal Status
Additive E129 was previously banned for use in food products in Denmark, Belgium, France, Sweden, Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland. However, in 2008, the EU implemented a unified food additive approval system, under which Allura Red AC is currently permitted throughout all EU member states.
The dye Allura Red AC is also approved for use as a food additive in most other countries around the world.