color INS 182

Orceins E182

natural dye — Primarily natural.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Banned

🇯🇵 Japan: Banned

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Banned

🇨🇦 Canada: Banned

Scientific Name

Orcein

CAS: 1400-62-0

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Orceins occurs naturally in Lichens (Roccella species) and Various lichen species. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Orceins is produced through fermentation — the same biological process used to make bread, beer, and yogurt.

Beyond food, Orceins is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Permitted but rarely used

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

banned Not approved

Not permitted for food use

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

banned

Not permitted

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not evaluated

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not established

Everyday Perspective

For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:

Natural Occurrence

An ancient natural purple-red dye extracted from lichens. Used historically to dye fabrics and now rarely used in foods. One of the oldest known dyes, dating back to ancient civilizations.

Lichens (Roccella species)Various lichen species

Manufacturing

Method: extraction from lichens

Extracted from various lichen species through fermentation and oxidation processes. Production is limited due to slow lichen growth.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Historical use in cosmetics

Medical

Used as biological stain in laboratories

Industrial

Textile dyeing, histological staining in microscopy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orceins (E182)?

Orceins (E182) is a color used in food products. It is natural dye and natural. An ancient natural purple-red dye extracted from lichens. Used historically to dye fabrics and now rarely used in foods. One of the oldest known dyes, dating back to ancient civilizations.

Is Orceins banned in any country?

Orceins is banned in USA, Japan, Canada, Australia/NZ. Regulatory status varies by country. Always check with your local food regulatory authority for current information.

Where is Orceins found naturally?

Orceins is naturally found in Lichens (Roccella species), Various lichen species. An ancient natural purple-red dye extracted from lichens. Used historically to dye fabrics and now rarely used in foods. One of the oldest known dyes, dating back to ancient civilizations.

What is the ADI for Orceins?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Orceins is Not evaluated as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

Is Orceins the same as Orchil?

Yes, Orceins is also known as Orchil, Archil, Lichen purple. These are different names for the same substance.

Primary Research & Evidence