<P> The insect produces carminic acid that deters predation by other insects . Carminic acid , typically 17 - 24 % of dried insects ' weight , can be extracted from the body and eggs , then mixed with aluminium or calcium salts to make carmine dye , also known as cochineal . Today , carmine is primarily used as a colorant in food and in lipstick . </P>
<P> The insect produces carminic acid that deters predation by other insects . Carminic acid , typically 17 - 24 % of dried insects ' weight , can be extracted from the body and eggs , then mixed with aluminium or calcium salts to make carmine dye , also known as cochineal . Today , carmine is primarily used as a colorant in food and in lipstick . </P>
where does red dye in food come from
where does red dye in food come from
insect cochineal
insect cochineal