Safety grading RED – UNSAFE
Ponceau 4R (E124) is a synthetic red azo dye used as a food coloring. It has been subject to intense debate due to potential health concerns. The additive is banned in the United States and Canada, as it is not approved by the FDA for use in foods. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated it and still permits its use in the EU under strict conditions, setting an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 0–4 mg/kg body weight.
The main concerns around E124 include potential links to hyperactivity in children, allergic reactions (especially in people sensitive to aspirin), and possible genotoxicity in long-term studies. Although not definitively proven carcinogenic, the uncertainty around its long-term effects combined with outright bans in some markets makes it a high-risk additive.
Because E124 cannot legally be used in the US and is restricted in the EU, it is classified here as RED – UNSAFE.
Should You Avoid E124?
Yes. Given that Ponceau 4R is banned in several large markets and carries documented risks for sensitive individuals, it is advisable to avoid this additive. Products containing it may be legal in the EU but avoiding them minimizes potential health risks, especially for children and those with asthma or salicylate sensitivity.
Common Uses
- Soft drinks and powdered drink mixes
- Confectionery, candies, and sweets
- Desserts and jellies
- Processed cheeses and dairy desserts
- Bakery products and icings
Common names / Synonyms
- Ponceau 4R
- Cochineal Red A
- Brilliant Scarlet 4R
- C.I. 16255
- New Coccine
What is it?
Ponceau 4R is a synthetic azo dye, belonging to the same family as Tartrazine (E102) and Allura Red AC (E129). It is produced through a chemical synthesis process that creates an artificial coloring agent with a bright red hue. Unlike natural colorings derived from fruits, vegetables, or minerals, azo dyes are manufactured using petroleum-derived raw materials and involve diazotization and coupling reactions.
The resulting substance is water-soluble and stable under heat and light, which makes it appealing to food manufacturers. However, the stability and persistence of azo dyes are also why they raise health concerns, as their breakdown products can sometimes be biologically active or toxic.
Scientific studies have linked Ponceau 4R to potential effects on behavior in children (hyperactivity and attention issues). It can also provoke intolerance reactions, particularly among asthmatics and those intolerant to aspirin. For these reasons, regulators have been cautious. The FDA never approved it, and EFSA allows it only within tight limits.
The controversy highlights a broader issue: while artificial colorants provide strong, appealing colors that improve product marketability, they often come with trade-offs in terms of long-term safety.
Where it’s allowed (EU vs US)
European Union: Allowed in specific foods with maximum permitted levels. ADI = 0–4 mg/kg bw/day (EFSA).
United States: Not approved by the FDA for use in foods – effectively banned.