NATURAL COLORANTS-COCHINEAL RED
1. Source of Cochineal Red
Cochineal red is an organic compound with the molecular formula C22H20O13. It is a natural colorant extracted from the bodies of female cochineal insects that grow on various types of cacti in different regions. The color ranges from pink to crimson. It is used as a natural colorant in the production of food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and textiles.
Cochineal red, a safe and natural colorant, is derived from the bodies of female cochineal insects that parasitize cacti. The red color is obtained by grinding the dried bodies of the female cochineal and then extracting it with water. Its primary component is carminic acid (also known as cochineal acid), a derivative of anthraquinone.
Cochineal insects are native to Central and South America, particularly in regions such as Peru and the Canary Islands. It is estimated that the global production of cochineal red raw materials is approximately 250 to 300 tons, with Peru accounting for around 200 tons. The indigenous peoples of Mexico have long utilized wild cochineal insects for the extraction of cochineal red and have cultivated them for centuries. In the 15th century, the Spanish began cultivating cacti to rear cochineal insects both in their homeland and in the Canary Islands for the extraction of this natural colorant.
2.Applications and Advantages of Cochineal Red
Cochineal red plays a significant role in a wide variety of products. In the food industry, it enhances the appeal of candies, beverages, drinks, and meat products by adding vibrant colors. Additionally, it is utilized in cosmetics due to its vivid and stable hues, along with its natural and safe attributes.
Cochineal red can be blended with yellow, orange, and red colorants, such as curcumin, annatto, paprika oleoresin(chilli red), and β-carotene, to create a range of different shades for various applications.
In cosmetics, cochineal red imparts a natural and long-lasting color effect to lipsticks . Moreover, due to its excellent stability and compatibility, it is favored by both consumers and manufacturers alike.
With the continuous advancement of technology and the gradual maturation of the market, it is believed that cochineal red will continue to shine in the field of natural colorants in the future!
