Carmine: Additive

Carmine is an artificial coloring extracted from dried cochineal beetles. Carminic acid is the substance that provides its red color. It is often used to color fruit-bottomed yogurt; red, pink, and purple candy; juices and other beverages; Campari; lipsticks and other cosmetics; and medications. Carmine and carminic acid have been observed to cause numerous allergic reactions including asthma, hives and anaphylactic shock.