E121 — Citrus Red 2

Citrus Red 2: IARC Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic); the evidence comes from animal studies, and human cancer risk from food exposure is not established. Carcinogenic in mice and rats; oral administration produced bladder hyperplasia and tumours at high doses / long-term exposure (IARC Monographs Vol 8, 1975 / Suppl 7, 1987). Used only to colour the skin of oranges (normally not eaten), but it transfers to the pulp on contact and into zest, so intake is possible. Not authorised as a food additive in the EU; banned in Ukraine.

Avoid — an established health hazard.