A dried female insect, Coccus cacti, previously used as a dye.
Cochineal is a red-hued coloring agent that is derived from a small beetle that is native to Mexico. Once harvested, the beetle is dried and ground into a fine powder. Cochineal is frequently employed to provide an array of pink and red shades to candies, cakes, buns, cookies, and cold desserts. In addition, it is used to enhance the color of canned fruits and jams.