Bug Extract in Food Will Soon Require Label.

Starting in 2011, the FDA will require all cochineal extract and carmine color additives to be included in the ingredient statement on food and cosmetic labels. Frighteningly, these animal products are often listed as “artificial color.”

Cochineal extract and carmine color are used to dye food, drinks and cosmetics in various shades of red, orange, pink and purple, and are extracted from the dried bodies of the female cochineal bug. I’m guessing that as soon as food manufacturers are required to label their products as having bug parts, they’ll switch to something more appetizing for red dye (i.e. beet juice).

Hopefully, come 2011, we don’t all find that our favorite vegan foods really aren’t vegan. My advice, call the company to find out directly.