Additive of the Day: INS 105 Carthamus Yellow – A Natural Colorant Widely Used but Unapproved in the EU and US

INS 105, known as Carthamus Yellow, is a natural food coloring derived from the vibrant petals of the safflower plant (Carthamus tinctorius). This bright yellow-to-orange pigment has been valued for centuries, initially as a dye for fabrics and cosmetics, and now as a trusted food additive.

Its origin, versatility, and distinction from synthetic dyes make it a fascinating topic in the world of food science.

Where Does Carthamus Yellow Come From?

Carthamus Yellow is extracted from the safflower, a plant widely cultivated in Asia, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. The safflower petals are rich in water-soluble flavonoid compounds that produce the characteristic yellow hue.

Traditionally used for fabric dyeing and in herbal medicine, this pigment has found a new role as a natural alternative to synthetic food dyes.

Modern extraction methods use water or ethanol to isolate the yellow compounds from dried safflower petals, resulting in a safe and effective food-grade colorant.

What Makes Carthamus Yellow Special?

• Natural Origin:
  Carthamus Yellow is plant-derived, making it a preferable choice for consumers seeking clean-label products. Its natural source offers reassurance in an era when artificial additives are under increasing scrutiny.

• Vivid Yet Subtle Hue:
  It provides foods with a warm, golden-yellow color that feels soft and natural, making it ideal for products like beverages, baked goods, and desserts.

• Safety:
  As a natural extract, Carthamus Yellow is considered safe for most people. However, like any plant-based product, some individuals with sensitivities to safflower should consume it in moderation.

Common Applications

Carthamus Yellow is widely used in food products that benefit from its sunny hue and natural reputation:

• Beverages: Adds a subtle yellow tone to juices, teas, and carbonated drinks.
• Confectionery: Enhances the appearance of candies, jellybeans, and gum.
• Baked Goods: Imparts a golden tint to cakes, cookies, and pastries.
• Dairy: Used in ice cream and yogurts to create visual appeal without synthetic additives.

Is It Safe?

Carthamus Yellow is approved for use in many regions but faces restrictions in others. Its regulatory status highlights the varying global standards for food additives.

• 🇪🇺 European Union:
  The EU does not approve Carthamus Yellow as a food additive, citing concerns over inconsistent purity and potential contaminants from the extraction process. Regulators demand strict controls on natural additives to ensure they meet safety and quality standards, and Carthamus Yellow has not yet passed these rigorous evaluations.

• 🇺🇸 United States:
  Carthamus Yellow is not widely approved by the FDA for use in food products, primarily due to limited scientific research validating its safety for long-term consumption. The lack of sufficient toxicological data has led to a cautious approach, despite its natural origin.

• 🇨🇳 China:
  In China, Carthamus Yellow is approved and used extensively as a natural food colorant. Its use is regulated to ensure quality and purity, making it a common ingredient in traditional and modern foods.

• 🇮🇳 India:
  With its long-standing cultural ties to safflower, India allows the use of Carthamus Yellow in food. It is particularly prevalent in traditional sweets, beverages, and condiments.

• 🇯🇵 Japan:
  Japan recognizes Carthamus Yellow as a natural food additive. It is commonly used in confectionery and beverages, aligning with the country’s preference for natural ingredients.

• 🇦🇺 🇳🇿 Australia and New Zealand:
  Carthamus Yellow is permitted under certain conditions, but its use is less common than other natural or synthetic yellow colorants.

These regulatory variations underscore the importance of scientific evidence and standardized production processes in the approval of food additives.

Comparing Carthamus Yellow to Synthetic Dyes

Natural colorants like Carthamus Yellow often compete with synthetic dyes like Quinoline Yellow (INS 104) and Tartrazine (INS 102). Here’s how they differ:

While synthetic dyes offer vibrant colors and cost-efficiency, they are often linked to potential health concerns, such as hyperactivity in children or allergic reactions. Carthamus Yellow, on the other hand, appeals to consumers prioritizing natural and healthier food choices.

A Natural Color with a Rich History

The use of safflower dates back thousands of years. Ancient civilizations prized it as a textile dye, particularly in India, Persia, and Egypt. Over time, its role shifted from dyeing fabrics to coloring food.

Its modern application as a natural food additive represents a continuation of this historical journey, connecting traditional practices with contemporary clean-label trends.

The Future of Carthamus Yellow

Carthamus Yellow is a prime example of the ongoing shift toward natural additives. However, its future hinges on improving extraction methods to ensure safety, stability, and compliance with international food standards.

The restrictions in regions like the EU and the US highlight the challenges even natural additives face in meeting the highest regulatory benchmarks.

Conclusion

INS 105 (Carthamus Yellow) is more than just a colorant; it’s a bridge between traditional wisdom and modern food science. As consumers increasingly prioritize natural ingredients, Carthamus Yellow offers a compelling alternative to synthetic dyes.

Despite its regulatory challenges, its natural origin and rich cultural history make it a valuable player in the future of food innovation.

If you’ve ever enjoyed the golden hue of a natural beverage or dessert, you may have already experienced the charm of Carthamus Yellow—nature’s own gift to food color.