E-number  · E124

E124 — Ponceau 4R

Synthetic red azo dye. Vegan.

The entry Reference notes, kept short.

What it is

E124 (ponceau 4R, also called cochineal red A) is a synthetic red azo dye. Confusingly, "cochineal red A" has nothing to do with the cochineal insect (E120) — it's synthetic.

Why it matters

Used in dessert toppings, trifle, tinned strawberries, salami. Carries the EU children's-attention warning.

What to do

Always vegan.

Sources Where the entry is drawn from.
  • Vegan Society additives database