US to Require Labelling of Bug Parts by 2011

Posted by Jill Harris Jan 11, 2009

Effective January 5, 2011, U.S. consumers will finally be able to identify the presence of the insect-derived colouring agents cochineal and carmine in foods, beverages and cosmetics.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) currently allows crushed insect extracts to be labelled as “artificial colour”, meaning vegetarians cannot accurately assess whether a product is vegetarian-friendly.

The extract is used to give a pink, red or purpose hue to foods and beauty products. It is present in some brands of orange juice, for example, as well as beverages like Fruitopia.

Though the motivation behind the FDA’s changes is the potential for anaphylactic (severe allergic) reactions to those allergic to the insects, vegetarians can also breathe easier knowing the foods they choose are insect-free.

According to the FDA’s website, the legislation is partly in response to a 1998 citizen petition from the Centre for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), which also suggested that all animal products (including carmine/cochineal) be labelled.

Resources and Links:

• Hidden Sources of Non-Vegetarian Ingredients (Suite101)
• Listing of Color Additives Exempt From Certification; Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Labeling: Cochineal Extract and Carmine Declaration (FDA; January 5, 2009)
• New labeling rules for cochineal bug coloring (Foodnavigator-usa.com)
• Labeling of Bug-Based Food Colorings Will Help Some Consumers (CSPInet.com)