Carmine is an artificial coloring extracted from dried cochineal beetles. Carminic acid is the substance that provides its red color. It is often used to color fruit-bottomed yogurt; red, pink, and purple candy; juices and other beverages; Campari; lipsticks and other cosmetics; and medications. Carmine and carminic acid have been observed to cause numerous allergic reactions including asthma, hives and anaphylactic shock.
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