Ponceau 4R Red Shade 84%
Ponceau 4R Red Shade 84% is a synthetic red azo dye widely used as a colorant in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products. Known for its bright red hue and high coloring strength, it offers excellent solubility and stability in various formulations. Ponceau 4R is favored for imparting vibrant red shades to products while meeting international safety standards.
Primary Uses
Food Industry
Used as a colorant in beverages, confectionery, baked goods, and dairy products.
Imparts bright red to reddish-orange hues to enhance product appeal.
Suitable for use in syrups, sauces, and jellies.
Pharmaceutical Industry
Employed to color tablets, capsules, and liquid medicines for identification and aesthetic purposes.
Cosmetics Industry
Used in lipsticks, blushes, and other makeup products to provide vivid red tones.
Secondary Uses
Textile Industry
Occasionally used as a dye for cotton and synthetic fabrics.
Printing Inks
Utilized in ink formulations for packaging and labels requiring red coloration.
Other Applications
Used in art supplies like colored pencils and crayons for vibrant pigmentation.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): 1-(4-sulfonato-1-naphthylazo)-2-naphthol-6,8-disulfonic acid trisodium salt
Common/Trade Name: Ponceau 4R, Red Shade 84%
CAS Number: 2611-82-7
HS Code: 3204.17.00 (Synthetic organic coloring matter)
Synonyms: Acid Red 18, C.I. 16255, E124
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: Powder or granules
Color: Bright red powder
Odor: Odorless
Solubility: Soluble in water, insoluble in organic solvents
pH: 4.0 – 7.0 (aqueous solution)
Molecular Weight: Approx. 604.5 g/mol
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous; low toxicity
Toxicity: Generally recognized as safe within regulated limits
Allergenicity: May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
Regulatory Status: Approved by FDA, EFSA, and other bodies with specified usage limits
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture
Container Type: Supplied in sealed bags or drums
Shelf Life: Typically 2-3 years if stored properly
Handling Precautions: Avoid dust generation and inhalation
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with:
FDA regulations for food colorants
EU Regulation (E124) for food and cosmetics
Codex Alimentarius standards
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Moderately biodegradable
Ecotoxicity: Low to moderate; avoid release in large quantities into water bodies
Bioaccumulation: Not expected
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic
Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required: Dust mask, gloves, and eye protection recommended
Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid ingestion and inhalation
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and stored away from incompatible materials
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing difficulty occurs
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; discontinue use if irritation occurs
Eye Contact: Rinse with plenty of water for 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation persists
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if adverse effects occur
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂ extinguishers
Special Precautions: Avoid inhalation of combustion fumes
Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce toxic gases such as nitrogen oxides