E180, also known as Lithol rubine BK, is a food additive and a reddish synthetic azo dye. Mainly used as coloring matter in various food and beverage products.
- Chemical name 3-Hydroxy-4-[(4-methyl-2-sulfophenyl)azo]-2-naphthoic acid calcium salt
- Chemical formula C18H12CaN2O6S
- CAS number 5281-04-9
- E number E180
Pigment use
Lisu Ruhong BK is a synthetic pigment belonging to the azo dye class. It is commonly used to give food and beverage products a red or pink hue. Its bright color makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, including confectionery, beverages, dairy products, baked goods and processed foods.
chemical composition
Lisu Yuhong BK is derived from coal tar and undergoes a series of chemical processes to produce the final dye. It is usually produced in powder or granular form and comes in different shades of red or pink. Appearance is red powder, slightly soluble in hot water, insoluble in cold water and insoluble in ethanol.
Safety Precautions
Its European food additive number is E180.
The OECD evaluation report shows that the LD50 value of Lisuruhong BK for rats is > 5 g/kg bw, and the LD50 value for mice is > 16 g/kg bw. Overall, previous evaluations concluded that the acute oral toxicity of risorubine BK is low.
The dye is suspected of causing allergic reactions in highly sensitive individuals, such as rashes, eczema, hives, neurodermatitis, shortness of breath, and asthma-like attacks. It contains aluminum, which is believed to be linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, as well as ADHD, attention disorders and sexual dysfunction. Additionally, aluminum can negatively impact gut function, alter the microbiome and impair the immune system, potentially leading to inflammation and irritable bowel syndrome.
In the EU, E180 can be used without quantitative restrictions but only for coloring edible cheese rinds. It is banned in Australia, Canada and the United States.
Labeling requirements
Foods containing Litholrubine BK as an ingredient are generally required to list its specific name (Litholrubine BK or E180) on the ingredient label. This enables consumers to make informed choices and identify products containing synthetic food colorings.
