date:Jul 29, 2013
i. The red coluor comes from carminic acid, which the insects have in abundance. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, it takes on the order of 40,000 of the little bugs to produce one pound of cochineal extract. Besides yoghurts, carmine can be found in candies, ice creams, and beverages, as well as in drugs and cosmetics.
In response to a CSPI petition, the Food and Drug Administration at least requires carmine to be listed on food labels when it is used. Previously, companies c