Cochineal Extract vs Spirulina Extract: which is worse?

What is Cochineal Extract?

Cochineal extract is a red pigment derived from the dried bodies of female cochineal insects (Dactylopius coccus), which feed on prickly pear cacti in Central and South America. Approximately 70,000 insects are needed to produce 1 pound of dye. The active compound is carminic acid. It provides stable red, pink, and purple colors and has been used since Aztec times.

What is Spirulina Extract?

Spirulina extract is a blue-green color derived from the cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis (spirulina). The active coloring compound is phycocyanin, a fluorescent blue protein-pigment complex. The FDA approved spirulina extract as a color additive for candies, confections, and chewing gum in 2013, making it a popular natural alternative to FD&C Blue No. 1.

Documented risks

Cochineal Extract: Cochineal extract and carmine are associated with potentially severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. The FDA received multiple adverse event reports, and in 2009 issued a final rule requiring cochineal extract and carmine to be declared by name on food labels (rather than being permitted under 'artificial color'). EFSA confirmed its safety in 2015 but acknowledged allergic risk. Vegans and those following halal or kosher diets should avoid it as it is insect-derived.

Spirulina Extract: Spirulina extract is safe at food coloring use levels. Spirulina as a supplement is generally well-tolerated; however, it can contain trace amounts of heavy metals and potentially hepatotoxic cyanotoxins if harvested from contaminated water bodies. Commercial food-grade spirulina extract is purified and subject to quality standards that minimize these risks. No adverse effects from spirulina-derived food coloring have been documented in peer-reviewed literature.