Red food colouring
Unknown brand
Processing
4
Ultra-processed
Group 4 of 4 on the NOVA scale
Additives listed
7
0 we grade moderate or higher
4 of them not yet assessed here
Nutrients
–
Nothing above the low band
Or no figures recorded at all
Three separate readings, kept apart on purpose. This is not a score, and none of it says this product is harmful.
Additives (7)
This label lists 2 acidity regulators, 2 colours, 1 carrier, 1 emulsifier and 1 additive.
E433
Polysorbate 80
Emulsifier
What it is. A synthetic emulsifier that keeps oil and water mixed and smooth.
Why it is used. Used in ice cream, sauces and some bakery products.
What the evidence says. Part of a wider research question about whether certain emulsifiers disturb the gut lining and microbiome. Most of the evidence so far is from mice and lab models, not people, so it is an active area rather than a settled concern.
Permitted with limits.
Assessed against EFSA. Full entry for E433
E100
Curcumin
Yellow colour
What it is. The yellow pigment from turmeric root.
Why it is used. Colours mustards, sauces, dairy, confectionery and savoury snacks.
What the evidence says. A plant pigment people have eaten as a spice for a very long time, and regulators treat it as safe with an acceptable daily intake. EFSA noted that children who eat a lot of the foods it is used in could approach that intake, which is a reason to watch total use rather than a sign of harm.
Permitted with maximum levels in the foods where it is allowed.
Assessed against EFSA, JECFA. Full entry for E100
E330
Citric acid
Acidity regulator
What it is. A mild acid found naturally in citrus fruit, made commercially by fermentation.
Why it is used. Adds tartness, balances flavour and helps preserve. One of the most used additives in food.
What the evidence says. Safe at food levels. No credible health concern for the additive itself.
Permitted freely.
Assessed against EFSA, JECFA. Full entry for E330
Also on the label, not assessed here yet
- E120 Cochineal, carminic acid, carmines colour
- E1520 Propane-1,2-diol carrier
- E422 Glycerol other
- E525 Potassium hydroxide acidity regulator
Names and jobs come from the register of additives permitted in Great Britain, which we have not finished transcribing: a code shown without a name is a gap in our coverage, not a finding that it is unapproved. Naming one is not grading it either. Full detail appears only where we have an assessment against a named authority, so all of this describes our coverage rather than these additives. Most are common and low concern.
Ingredients
Glycerol, Water,Propylene Glycol; Emulsifier: Polysorbate 80; Colours: Carmines, Curcumin; Acidity Regulators: Citric acid, Potassium Hydroxide.
As printed on the pack, in the producer's own order: ingredients are listed by weight, so what comes first is most of what is in it. E numbers link to their assessment where we have one.