Carmine is a natural colorant derived from the cochineal insect Dactylopius Coccus Costa which grows on cacti in Central and South America. Nowadays a large part of the cochineal comes from Peru where it grows in nature as well as on plantations due to the ideal climate of the country. 
 

1. Cochineal Carmine is an excellent natural food red pigment. It shows bright purplish red in weak acid or neutral environment, but its color changes under alkaline conditions. The maximum absorption of pigment solution at the pH value of 5.7 occurred at 494 nm.

2. The pigment had good storage stability and thermal stability, but poor light stability. After 24 hours of direct sunlight, the pigment retention rate was only 18.4%. In addition, the pigment has weak oxidation resistance and is greatly affected by metal ion Fe3 +. But the reducing substance can protect the color of pigment.

3. Cochineal Carmine is stable to most food additives and has a wide range of application.
 

Cosmetic: Can be used for lipstick, foundation, eye shadow, eyeliner, nail polish.

Medicine: Carmine in the pharmaceutical industry, as a coating material for tablets and pellets, and colorants for capsule shells.

Food: Carmine can also be used in food such as candy, drinks, meat products, coloring.