Reading Scientific Services (RSSL) has added analysis of cochineal carmine, also known as E120, to the range of colours, both natural and artificial, that it can detect by HPLC with UV detection.
The development means RSSL can now detect cochineal carmine at levels in drinks down to 0.5 parts per million.
Cochineal carmine, also known as E120, is a permitted red colorant derived from carminic acid, which is produced by the cochineal (Dactylopius coccus) insect.
There could be a number of reasons why food manufacturers want to check levels of cochineal carmine, either to confirm its absence or presence.
RSSL state that clients use its tests for applications such as recovery for new product development purposes; claims substantiation; assessing competitor products; or attempting to verify that colours have not been used to boost the appearance of a key ingredient.
