Cochineal in Food
On cochineal insects in food
The food of the world has a complete color and fragrance. The beauty of color is related to appetite and is also important to the senses. Among them, cochineal insects play a pivotal role in the color of food.
Cochineal insects are produced in foreign lands. Their bodies are tiny and come together. In the past, by chance, people found that they could be pigments. At first, they were mostly picked by hand. Although it was difficult, its color was bright and stable, so it was important for people.
In all foods and beverages, cochineal extract is often added to increase its color. Or red like Danxia, or pink like peach, attracting people to drink. Candy is also used, colorful, and children especially love it. On the pastry, add this color, such as icing on the cake, increase its appearance, and attract taste.
Of course, everything has advantages and disadvantages. When cochineal is used in food, opinions vary. Some people think that it is natural, non-toxic and harmless, and can be eaten with confidence when used in food. And its color is good, which can add a lot of color to food, which is beneficial to the development of the food industry. However, some people worry that although it is natural, individual differences exist, or some people are allergic to it. And a large number of cochineal worms are collected, which may have an impact on the ecology.
In order to make the application of cochineal in food good and harmless, strict regulations should be established. It is good to use it, and it is not indiscriminate to protect the ecology. Use it in food, clarify its content, and let the eater know. And often check whether cochineal insects in food have adverse effects on people, and if so, change them immediately.
In short, cochineal insects make a great contribution to the color of food. When used in a scientific way, weigh the pros and cons, so that the food is both beautiful and harmless to people, and is in line with the ecological way. In this way, the food industry and ecology can be safe.
