E127 · Erythrosine
- WHO
- Use caution
- FDA
- Better avoided
- EFSA
- Use caution
- FSANZ
- Use caution
- Japan
- Use caution
- UK FSA
- Use caution
- Health Canada
- Use caution
What is E127?
Erythrosine (Red No. 3) is a synthetic pink-red xanthene dye used in candies, cake decorations, cocktail cherries, and some oral medications. Animal studies have linked high-dose erythrosine to thyroid tumors, leading the FDA to revoke its authorization for food use in January 2025 (compliance deadline January 2027) after earlier banning it from cosmetics; it remains restricted in the EU to a narrow set of uses (mainly cocktail/candied cherries) with a set acceptable daily intake.
Also appears on labels as: Erythrosine, E127, E-127, E 127, Red No. 3, FD&C Red 3, Food Red 14, Acid Red 51, Pink Erythrosine, Erythrosin B, Tetraiodofluorescein, CI 45430.
What the evidence says
- Animal studies link high-dose exposure to thyroid tumors; FDA revoked authorization for food use in the US (January 2025 ruling, phase-out by 2027).
- EU restricts use to a narrow list of foods with an established ADI.
Frequently asked questions
Is E127 safe?
Our overall verdict for E127 (Erythrosine) is “Better avoided”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: better avoided; WHO: use caution; EFSA: use caution; FSANZ: use caution; Japan: use caution; UK FSA: use caution; Health Canada: use caution.
Is E127 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Erythrosine — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E127 and why is it used?
Erythrosine (Red No. 3) is a synthetic pink-red xanthene dye used in candies, cake decorations, cocktail cherries, and some oral medications. Animal studies have linked high-dose erythrosine to thyroid tumors, leading the FDA to revoke its authorization for food use in January 2025 (compliance deadline January 2027) after earlier banning it from cosmetics; it remains restricted in the EU to a narrow set of uses (mainly cocktail/candied cherries) with a set acceptable daily intake.
Does E127 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Erythrosine, though some people report sensitivity (dye sensitivity).
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.