Amaranth
CAS Number
915-67-3
EC Number
213-022-2
E Number
E123
What is Amaranth?
Amaranth (CAS 915-67-3), also known as E123 and Red No. 2, is a synthetic azo dye producing a deep red-to-maroon hue.
Where is Amaranth used?
- Textile and leather: dyeing natural and synthetic fibers
- Printing inks: vivid red shades for packaging
- Food and beverage: coloring caviar, certain alcoholic drinks and fish roe where permitted by regional regulation
- Paper: consistent red tones in decorative and specialty grades
- It functions as a colorant in formulations requiring stable red coloration at controlled concentrations.
Good to know: Dye content is a key specification buyers should confirm during procurement. Food-grade specification meets E123 purity standards; technical grade is used for textile and industrial applications.
Commercial specifications
- Dye content to be confirmed during procurement
- Commercial grades vary in active dye concentration by intended application
Other Names (Synonyms)
Red number two|Red number 2|Red num 2|Red No 2|Red dye number two|Red dye number 2|Red dye #two|Red dye #2|E123
What are the physical properties of Amaranth?
Melting Point >300°C
Density ~1.50 g/cm³ (approx)
Flash Point 214°
Appearance solid
Color Dark reddish-brown to dark brown
Form Crystalline Powder
Water Solubility 50 g/L (20 ºC)
pH 9.65 (28°C, - OECD Test Guideline 122 - alkaline)
Log P -5.13
How is Amaranth classified and handled safely? Learn More
Warning
GHS07· Irritant
Hazard Statements
H315 Causes skin irritation
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
H335 May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary Statements
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Amaranth?
HS Code 32129000
Storage Class 11 - Combustible Solids
WGK (Germany) 3