Orange B

Definition

Orange B is a synthetic red-orange azo dye approved by the US FDA for limited use in processed meat casings. 

Health considerations

In a study of pregnant rats given Orange B daily throughout pregnancy in their drinking water, when intake was 0.4% of the diet the offspring had higher rates of tissue malformations. Other studies in rats and rabbits have not found effects on fetal development.

Keep in mind

Orange B is permitted at levels no higher than 150 parts per million and is approved only for coloring use in sausage and frankfurter casings and surfaces.

May be found in

Frankfurters, sausages

References

FDA
PubMed 1
PubMed 2

Alternative names and spellings

Acid orange 137