As a subject matter expert in the field of food science and additives, I can provide you with an informed answer regarding carmine.

Carmine, also known as cochineal extract, is a red pigment that is derived from the cochineal insects, which are small, dried insects native to Central and South America. These insects live on cactus plants and produce a red dye as a defense mechanism. The process of obtaining carmine involves crushing the insects to extract the colorant. It has been used for centuries as a natural colorant in the food, cosmetics, and textile industries.

However, whether carmine is considered "natural" can be a matter of debate. While it is derived from a natural source, the process of production involves industrial methods, and some people may argue that it is not natural in the sense that it is not a simple, unprocessed ingredient. Additionally, there are concerns about the sustainability and ethical implications of harvesting cochineal insects for colorant production.

In terms of regulations, carmine is recognized as a natural color additive by the FDA in the United States and is listed as E120 in the European Union's list of additives.

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In fact the dye, known as carmine or cochineal, is quite natural. It's made from the extracts of dried bodies of the Coccus cacti bug. Yes, the natural food coloring carmine is made from bugs.read more >>