E128 · Colours
Red 2G
Not authorised in EU, but permitted in AU-NZ and US. No evidence of harm at dietary intake.
- Category
- Colours
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Red 2G is a synthetic azo dye whose EU authorisation was suspended in 2007.
How it is used in food
It was used mainly to keep a pink colour in sausage meat.
Commonly found in- Sausage meat
- Burger patties
- Confectionery
Health and safety
No known risks at typical dietary levels.
EFSA could not set a safe intake because the concern is genotoxicity of a metabolite; the EU withdrew it in 2007.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E128
Worth knowing
It is one of the few food colours removed by an emergency suspension rather than a routine review.
Conclusion
A highly dangerous, banned synthetic dye.
References
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-08-05.
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