Orcein

Orcein (CAS 1400-62-0), also known commercially as orchil and approved as food colorant E182, is a natural dye derived from lichens used to impart red-purple to violet hues.

Where is Orcein used?

• Food and beverage: E182 colorant delivering red-violet shades in confectionery, beverages and specialty products
• Textile: dye for wool, silk and other protein fibers, bonding directly without a mordant
• Histology and biological research: active component in staining preparations that differentiate elastic fibers and chromosomal material in tissue sections
• Leather and paper industries use it to achieve violet tones in specialty finishing and decorative applications.

Good to know: Natural and synthetic forms exist; synthetic orcein is commonly offered for laboratory and histological staining grades. Food-grade material conforming to E182 specifications is available for regulated colorant applications.

Commercial specifications

• Natural and synthetic forms
• Synthetic orcein for laboratory and histological staining grades
• Food-grade material conforming to E182 specifications