What is Ponceau 4R (E 124)?
Ponceau 4R is a synthetic food colorant used to give or restore red color to foods. It is defined in the Turkish Food Codex under code E 124 and Color Index (CI) 16255.
Where is Ponceau 4R Used?
It is used for coloring in food categories permitted by regulations. For permitted categories and maximum amounts, see the table below.
Pharmaceutical / Food Industry Applications
- Lake (aluminum lake) form is used as a coating colorant in pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements (for coating tablets, dragees, capsules, and supplement products).
- Synthetic food colors may also be used in pharmaceuticals, depending on their specification. If the product specification includes USP, NF, or Ph.Eur designations, the product's compliance with pharmaceutical standards is verified against these standards.
- There is no ban on use in dietary supplements; it may be used within the limits established for foods.
In Which Foods and at What Levels is Ponceau 4R Used? — Legal Limits (Turkish Food Codex)
E 124 is associated with Group III colorants; the total amount must not exceed the Group III maximum (footnote 61).
| Food category | Maximum amount | Footnote |
|---|---|---|
| Flavored creams | 5 mg/kg | (61) |
| Mostarda di frutta | 20 mg/kg | (61) |
| Fruit and vegetable sweets | 10 mg/kg | (61) |
| Pre-cooked crustaceans | 250 mg/kg | (36) |
Note: "quantum satis" means use as required by good manufacturing practice without a specific numerical upper limit. For Group III colorants, the total amount must not exceed the combined maximum established for the group.
E-Number, Color, and Technical Properties
- E code: E 124 · Color Index: CI 16255 · Color: red
- CAS No: 2611-82-7 · Chemical Formula: C20H11N2Na3O10S3
- Forms: powder (water-soluble) and aluminum lake
Storage, Shelf Life, and Re-test Period
For our products, the recommended re-test period is 3 years; it may extend up to 5 years with some manufacturers and varies by producer. The CoA / specification document for the relevant batch shall be used to determine the exact re-test date.
Technical Documents and Supply — Asuka Kimya
For SDS, TDS, CoA, and pharmacopeial (USP/NF/Ph.Eur) compliance information for Ponceau 4R (E 124), as well as supply conditions, please contact Asuka Kimya.