FD&C Yellow No. 5, Cochineal Extract, and Carmine
Many alcohol beverages contain additives, which are added to impart color to the product. Three color additives must be specifically named on alcohol beverage product labels if present in the product: FD&C Yellow No. 5, cochineal extract, and carmine.
For these products, the phrase "Contains [color additive name]" must appear on the product label.
Where should the color ingredient disclosure be placed on the product?
For FD&C Yellow No. 5
A wine containing FD&C Yellow No. 5 is required to bear a statement of composition on the brand label. The statement of composition may use the phrase "certified color" rather than specifically identifying FD&C Yellow No. 5, but FD&C Yellow No. 5 (or FD&C Yellow #5) must specifically be declared elsewhere on the product’s label.
For cochineal extract and carmine
A wine containing either cochineal extract or carmine, or both, is required to bear a statement of composition on the brand label. The statement of composition may use the phrase "artificial color" rather than specifically identifying cochineal extract or carmine, but cochineal extract or carmine (or both) must specifically be declared elsewhere on the product’s label.
What are the formatting requirements for the color ingredient disclosure?
Type size
- Minimum 2 mm for containers larger than 187 mL,
- Minimum 1 mm for containers of 187 mL or less.
The minimum type size applies to each numeral or letter in the statement, including both upper-case and lower-case letters.
Legibility
- Must be readily legible under ordinary conditions;
- Must appear on a contrasting background; and
- Must appear separate and apart from, or be substantially more conspicuous than, descriptive or explanatory information.
Is formula approval required for wines containing one of these color additives?
Wines that contain color additives require formula approval prior to applying for label approval.