Erythrosine
Erythrosine is a high-purity red synthetic dye classified as a tetraiodofluorescein salt, commonly used as a colorant in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications. It is a water-soluble, dark red to reddish-brown powder with excellent tinting strength and brightness. Erythrosine is valued for its vivid red color, good stability under normal conditions, and compatibility with a variety of formulation systems. It is widely used to impart red hues in candies, beverages, cosmetics, and diagnostic reagents.
Erythrosine Uses
Primary Uses
Food Industry
- Used as a permitted color additive in foods, beverages, candies, and bakery products to provide a bright cherry-red color.
- Commonly found in processed fruits, jams, gelatin desserts, and chewing gums.
- Enhances visual appeal and consumer acceptance of food products.
Pharmaceuticals
- Employed as a coloring agent in tablets, capsules, syrups, and topical medications to improve product identification and aesthetics.
- Used in diagnostic kits and reagents for staining and tracing purposes.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Incorporated in lipsticks, blushes, eye shadows, and other makeup products for vibrant red pigmentation.
- Used in hair dyes and bath products requiring red coloring.
Industrial Applications
- Utilized in inks, paints, and coatings for coloration.
- Applied in textile dyeing for specific red shades.
- Used as a tracer dye in water treatment and leak detection.
Secondary UsesÂ
Biological Staining
- Applied in histology and microbiology as a stain for biological tissues and cells.
- Used in fluorescence microscopy due to its iodine content and fluorescence properties.
Printing Inks
Added to printing inks for packaging and decorative printing requiring bright red colors.
Key Attributes
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Disodium 2',4',5',7'-tetraiodofluorescein
- Common/Trade Name: Erythrosine 86%
- CAS Number: 16423-68-0
- HS Code: 3204.17.00
- Molecular Formula: C20H6I4Na2O5
- Synonyms: FD&C Red No. 3, Erythrosin B, Tetraiodofluorescein disodium salt
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Dark red to reddish-brown crystalline powder
- Odor: Odorless
- Solubility: Soluble in water, insoluble in organic solvents
- Melting Point: Decomposes before melting (~300°C)
- pH (1% aqueous solution): Approximately 5.0–7.0 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Stability: Stable under dry conditions; sensitive to strong light and oxidizing agents
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous but may cause eye and skin irritation
- Toxicity: Low acute toxicity; avoid ingestion in large amounts
- Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits established
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and moisture
- Container Type: Sealed plastic or glass containers, moisture-proof packaging
- Shelf Life: 24 months if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation and inhalation; minimize exposure to light to prevent degradation
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Approved as a color additive for use in foods, drugs, and cosmetics under regulated conditions (e.g., FD&C Red No. 3)
- REACH Registration: Registered for industrial and cosmetic use in the EU
- Food Additive Code: E127 in Europe
- Usage Restrictions: Maximum permitted levels specified by regulatory authorities; banned or limited in some countries
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Slowly biodegradable
- Ecotoxicity: Low to moderate toxicity to aquatic organisms; avoid release into waterways
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate significantly
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic; some historical concerns regarding high doses but generally safe within regulated use levels
Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required:
- Protective gloves (nitrile or latex)
- Safety goggles or face shield
- Dust mask or respirator in dusty environments
- Protective clothing or lab coat
Handling Guidelines:
- Use in well-ventilated areas or under local exhaust ventilation
- Avoid inhalation of dust and skin contact
- Prevent dust accumulation and spills
Storage Measures:
- Keep containers tightly sealed
- Store away from strong oxidizers and light sources
- Avoid moisture exposure
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands after handling
- Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking near handling areas
- Clean surfaces and equipment to prevent contamination
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move affected person to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water for 15 minutes; consult physician if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention if large amounts ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible when exposed to high temperatures; may emit toxic fumes upon decomposition
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚)
- Special Precautions: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing when fighting fires involving erythrosine
Decomposition Products: May emit iodine vapors, carbon oxides, and other toxic gases