Consumer Feedback Causes Starbucks to End Use of Red Dye Made from Bugs

By Scott Sarvay

April 20, 2012 Updated Apr 20, 2012 at 8:46 AM EDT

SEATTLE (Indiana’s NewsCenter) - Starbucks Corp. says it will stop using a red dye in its drinks that is derived from crushed bugs.

The company says it will swap out cochineal extract, which is made from the juice of a tiny beetle, and instead use lycopene, a tomato-based extract.

Cochineal dye is widely used in foods and cosmetics products such as lipstick, yogurt and shampoo. Starbucks had used the coloring in its strawberry flavored mixed drinks and foods like the raspberry swirl cake and red velvet whoopie pie.

The coffee chain said it made the decision to reformulate its drinks after feedback from consumers prompted a "thorough" evaluation.




What are your thoughts CLICK HERE to leave us a "Your2Cents” comment.

Want to be in the know for the next weather event, the next school closing or the next big breaking news story?

TextCaster alerts from Indiana's NewsCenter are your defining source for instant information delivered right to your cell phone and email. It's free, easy and instant. Sign-Up Now!

Powered by Summit City Chevrolet



© Copyright 2013 A Granite Broadcasting Station. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.