Can You Guess How They Make Candies so Red?
Ever wonder what gives candy its bright, eye-catching colors? Many companies rely on artificial dyes, which often aren’t the healthiest choice. But when it comes to red candy, there’s a surprising twist. Instead of synthetic chemicals, a lot of manufacturers use carmine to achieve that vibrant red hue. What’s carmine, you ask? It’s actually derived from the crushed bodies of female cochineal beetles found in South America
While it might sound a bit unsettling, it’s a natural alternative to synthetic dyes and is generally considered safer. Still, it’s often labeled as Natural Red #4 on ingredient lists, which doesn’t exactly spell out its origins. Beyond candy, carmine is widely used in the cosmetics industry to add color to lipsticks, blushes, and more. So, the next time you enjoy a red treat, remember—it might just have a little bug-based magic in it. Who knew nature could be so colorful?
