FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - Starbucks to stop using 'crushed bug' dye
Old Apr 22, 2012 | 11:07 am
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TWA884
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Originally Posted by TMOliver
You've likely consumed dozens of products using cochineal, crushed beetle powder for want of a better description, during your life. I's pretty common, a little bit goes a long way and it's been price competitive with "synthetic organics", compounds no less potentially toxic (and maybe a lot more toxic, since eating bugs is pretty safe in most cases while wasn't that old "Red Dye #2" that looked to be carcinogenic?).
Even though I don't keep kosher, I generally look for the OU kosher logo and other kashrut certification symbols on packaged goods. That way I can avoid consuming such unappetizing ingredients.

I much prefer Starbucks substitute ingredient, lycopene, a natural, tomato-based extract (source). Why could they not use it originally?
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