Is carmoisine e122 vegan?

Carmoisine, labeled as E122 and also known as azorubine, is a synthetic red azo dye used as a coloring agent in food and beverages. It is manufactured chemically from petroleum-derived aromatic hydrocarbons, specifically through the diazotization of 4-aminonaphthalene-1-sulfonic acid and coupling with 4-hydroxynaphthalene-1-sulfonic acid. Manufacturers add this dye to provide a red to maroon shade in products such as confectionery, sodas, packaged baked goods, jams, gelatins, and savory snacks.

Carmoisine E122 is considered vegan because its production relies exclusively on synthetic chemical synthesis, with no animal-derived raw materials or animal byproducts utilized in the process. Although consumers sometimes confuse it with cochineal or carmine (E120), which is extracted from crushed insects, carmoisine has no biological connection to insects or any other animal species. As a result, foods containing E122 are suitable for a vegan diet.