Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Citrus Red 2
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Citrus Red 2 (E121) is rated "Avoid / Concerns" according to current evidence. It is banned in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is banned or not approved in at least one major market.
On This Page
What is Citrus Red 2?
Red dye. Not permitted in EU. Approved in US only for orange peel coloring
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
Approved (restricted)US name: Citrus Red 2
Only for coloring orange peels. 2 ppm limit
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
BANNEDRed dye. Not permitted in EU. Approved in US only for orange peel coloring
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
BANNEDUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW database🇨🇦 CanadaCA
ApprovedGenerally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
Likely restrictedMay follow EU restrictions. Check FSANZ Schedule 15.
🇮🇳 India
May be restrictedCheck FSSAI regulations. India follows Codex Alimentarius guidelines.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
May be restrictedCheck MFDS (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety).
🇧🇷 Brazil
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
May be restrictedChina is more restrictive on synthetic colors. Check GB 2760.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
This additive is banned or not approved in at least one country
Regulatory agencies in different countries may reach different conclusions about the same ingredient based on their assessment criteria, acceptable risk levels, and available evidence. Always check the latest regulations in your region.
Expert Analysis
Citrus Red 2 is classified as a color in the food additive regulatory framework. Significant safety concerns have been identified, and this additive is restricted or banned in multiple markets. Notably, regulatory agencies disagree on this additive — it is banned in the EU but approved in the US. This regulatory divergence reflects different risk assessment philosophies between jurisdictions. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Citrus Red 2 safe?
Citrus Red 2 has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Is Citrus Red 2 vegan?
Citrus Red 2 is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Citrus Red 2 banned in Europe?
Yes, Citrus Red 2 is banned in the EU. Red dye. Not permitted in EU. Approved in US only for orange peel coloring
What is Citrus Red 2 made from?
Red dye. Not permitted in EU. Approved in US only for orange peel coloring
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Citrus Red 2 safe?
Is Citrus Red 2 banned in any country?
What is Citrus Red 2 used for?
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