123 Amaranth

123 Amaranth

What is Amaranth Grain & how does this differ to Amaranth E123?

Amaranth refers to a group of flowering plants belonging to the Amaranthaceae family. The seeds of these plants are commonly used as a nutrient-rich grain, and have been celebrated for its health benefits for centuries. However, there's another "amaranth" that you might encounter: E123 Amaranth, a synthetic food dye. 

The natural, plant-based Amaranth grain comes in various colours, including gold, red, and black. Its impressive nutritional profile includes complete protein (it contains all 9 essential amino acids), high dietary fibre, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants [1,2].

On the other hand, E123 Amaranth is a synthetic food colourant classified as an artificial dye. E123 Amaranth is created in laboratories. It is used to impart a deep red or purple-red colour to enhance the visual appeal of various food and beverage products, such as aperitif wine, americanos, and fish roe [3].

Purported Health Implications of both Amaranth Grain and Amaranth E123

Amaranth Grain:

  • Heart Health: Amaranth's dietary fibre content may help lower cholesterol levels to promote heart health, therefore reduce incidence and mortality from cardiovascular disease [4].

  • Weight Management & Appetite Regulation: Its fibre promotes satiety and slows down gastric emptying, aiding in weight management by appetite regulation [5].

  • Bone Health: Amaranth is a good source of the minerals, calcium and magnesium, crucial for maintaining strong bones. It is also suggested that Amaranth may help prevent osteoporosis, although further research is needed [6,7].

  • Antioxidant Properties: It contains antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E, which can help reduce oxidative stress and lower the risk of chronic diseases [1,6]. 

  • Vitamins and Minerals: Amaranth provides vitamins like folate and vitamin B6, along with essential minerals like iron, zinc, and phosphorus [2,6].

E123 Amaranth:

  • Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to synthetic food colourants like E123 Amaranth, experiencing asthma or skin rashes [8].

  • Hyperactivity: Research has explored potential links between synthetic food colourings, including E123, and hyperactivity, particularly in children. An association was found in one study, however, overall evidence remains inconclusive. [9]. 

Recommendations for Safe Consumption

To safely consume amaranth grain and be cautious with E123 Amaranth, consider these recommendations:

  • Purchase from Reliable Sources: Buy amaranth grain from reputable brands or stores to ensure product quality and safety.

  • Thoroughly Rinse and Cook: Rinse amaranth grains thoroughly under running water before cooking to remove any residues.

  • Variety in Diet: Incorporate amaranth grain as part of a diverse and balanced diet, and use it as a base for salads, soups, or side dishes

  • Allergies and Sensitivities: Be aware of any allergies or sensitivities to synthetic food colourants like E123 Amaranth. Avoid excessive consumption of aperitif wines and americanos. Consult a healthcare professional if you suspect an allergy.

References:

  1. Barba de la Rosa AP, Fomsgaard IS, Laursen B, Mortensen AG, Olvera-Martínez L, Silva-Sánchez C, et al. Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) as an alternative crop for sustainable food production: Phenolic acids and flavonoids with potential impact on its nutraceutical quality. Journal of Cereal Science. 2009 Jan;49(1):117–21.

  2. Zhang X, Shi J, Fu Y, Zhang T, Jiang L, Sui Xiaonan. Structural, nutritional, and functional properties of amaranth protein and its application in the food industry: A review. Sustainable Food Proteins. 2023 Mar 1;1(1):45–55.

  3. European Food Safety Authority. Scientific Opinion on the re-evaluation of Amaranth (E 123) as a food additive | EFSA [Internet]. www.efsa.europa.eu. 2010 [cited 2023 Oct 2]. Available from: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/1649

  4. McRae MP. Dietary Fiber Is Beneficial for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease: An Umbrella Review of Meta-analyses. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine [Internet]. 2017 Dec;16(4):289–99. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5731843/

  5. Salleh SN, Fairus AAH, Zahary MN, Bhaskar Raj N, Mhd Jalil AM. Unravelling the Effects of Soluble Dietary Fibre Supplementation on Energy Intake and Perceived Satiety in Healthy Adults: Evidence from Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised-Controlled Trials. Foods. 2019 Jan 6;8(1):15.

  6. Sarker U, Hossain MdM, Oba S. Nutritional and antioxidant components and antioxidant capacity in green morph Amaranthus leafy vegetable. Scientific Reports. 2020 Jan 28;10(1).

  7. Jeong YH, Haeng Jeon Hur, Ae Sin Lee, Lee S, Mi Jeong Sung. Amaranthus mangostanus Inhibits the Differentiation of Osteoclasts and Prevents Ovariectomy-Induced Bone Loss. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine [Internet]. 2020 Feb 7 [cited 2023 Oct 2];2020:1–11. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7029261/

  8. Silva MM, Reboredo FH, Lidon FC. Food Colour Additives: A Synoptical Overview on Their Chemical Properties, Applications in Food Products, and Health Side Effects. Foods [Internet]. 2022 Jan 1;11(3):379. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/11/3/379/htm

  9. European Food Safety Authority. EFSA lowers ADI on amaranth, completing its re-evaluation of azo dye food colours | EFSA [Internet]. www.efsa.europa.eu. 2010 [cited 2023 Oct 5]. Available from: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/press/news/100726

Disclaimer

We do our best to source robust information from a number of credible sources.  There is, however, a large amount of information on various aspects of nutritional elements along with  claims in terms of their contribution to helping in body health which may contradict the above. 


Cookies on myWellaBee

To give you the best search experience, we use cookies for remembering your search filters, personalizing content, and analyzing how the website is used.