Litholrubine BK

Litholrubine BK is a synthetic azo dye producing a vivid red colour. It holds the unusual distinction of being approved in the EU solely for colouring the rind of certain hard cheeses — notably Edam, Gouda, and Mimolette — and is not permitted for use in any other food product or in the interior of cheese. The distinctive red wax or coloured rind on these traditional European cheeses is its primary application.

No JECFA ADI has been formally established for litholrubine BK. EFSA reviewed its safety in the context of cheese rind use and noted that the quantity consumed from eating cheese rind is very small, limiting total dietary exposure significantly. Most consumers do not eat cheese rind, further minimising any exposure. No significant toxicological findings have been reported at the amounts derived from typical consumption of coloured cheese rind.

Litholrubine BK is approved in the EU with use restricted to cheese rind only. It is not permitted as a food additive in the United States, Canada, or most other markets. For consumers who eat the rind of Edam, Gouda, or similar cheeses, exposure to E180 is minimal given the small amount of rind consumed per serving. There are no known safety concerns for the general population at these exposure levels, though consumers wishing to avoid synthetic dyes altogether may prefer to remove the rind before eating.