Amaranth vs E172

Wondering whether Amaranth or E172 is safer? We analyzed both ingredients using FDA regulatory data, EU food safety assessments, and peer-reviewed research to help you make an informed choice.

Quick Verdict: Amaranth vs E172

Bottom line: E172 scores 90/100 vs 15/100 — making it the safer choice.

Scores based on regulatory status, research consensus, and known health effects. Not medical advice.

2026 Side-by-Side Comparison

FactorAmaranthE172
Safety Rating🔴 Significant Risk✅ Generally Safe
Safety Score15/10090/100
Categoryfood dyesfood dyes

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What Is Amaranth?

A dark red food dye banned in the US since 1976 due to cancer concerns. Still used in some European countries.

Amaranth is classified as a food dyes and has a safety rating of danger (15/100). Many health experts recommend limiting or avoiding this ingredient.

What Is E172?

Natural mineral colorants in yellow, red, and black. Used in confectionery coatings.

E172 is classified as a food dyes and has a safety rating of safe (90/100). Most health experts consider it acceptable in moderation.

Amaranth vs E172: Key Differences

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Which Should You Choose?

Based on current evidence, E172 appears to be the safer option. However, individual responses can vary based on genetics, health conditions, and consumption levels.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Amaranth safe to eat?
A dark red food dye banned in the US since 1976 due to cancer concerns. Still used in some European countries. It has a safety score of 15/100 in our database.
Is E172 safe to eat?
Natural mineral colorants in yellow, red, and black. Used in confectionery coatings. It has a safety score of 90/100 in our database.
Which is worse for you: Amaranth or E172?
Amaranth has a lower safety score (15/100), making it the worse option based on current research.
What can I use instead of Amaranth or E172?
Scan any product with the CheckIt app to see safer alternatives instantly. The app analyzes over 25,000 products and suggests cleaner options.
How do I know if my food contains Amaranth or E172?
Check the ingredients list on the packaging, or scan the product with the CheckIt AI app for an instant breakdown with safety scores for every ingredient.
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📋 Cite This Data
APACheckIt AI. (2026). "Amaranth vs E172: Safety, Side Effects & Which to Avoid (2026)". Climaverse PBC. Retrieved from https://getcheck.it/compare/amaranth-vs-e172
MLA"Amaranth vs E172: Safety, Side Effects & Which to Avoid (2026)." CheckIt AI, Climaverse PBC, 2026-04-18. https://getcheck.it/compare/amaranth-vs-e172.
HTML Embed<a href="https://getcheck.it/compare/amaranth-vs-e172">Amaranth vs E172: Safety, Side Effects & Which to Avoid (2026) — CheckIt AI</a>
BibTeX@misc{checkit2026compareamaranthvse172, title = {Amaranth vs E172: Safety, Side Effects & Which to Avoid (2026)}, author = {CheckIt AI}, year = {2026}, publisher = {Climaverse PBC}, url = {https://getcheck.it/compare/amaranth-vs-e172}, note = {Retrieved 2026-04-18} }