Cochineal extract: Starbucks Strawberry Frappuccinos colored with dried cochineal insect bodies

That rosy pink color in your Starbucks Strawberry Frappuccino is not all strawberries, but actually an extract derived from grinding up insects, according to a recent statement released by the company.

ABC News is reporting that Starbucks, in a move to reduce its use of artificial ingredients, started using cochineal extract to create the pink hue in its popular frappuccinos.

Cochineal extract is made using the dried bodies of cochineal bugs, which are primarily found in Mexico and South America.

But this isn't a new thing.

According to ABC News , cochineal dye has been used to color food since the 15th century. It's used in jams, preserves, meat, marinades, alcoholic drinks, bakery products, cookies, cheddar cheese and many other food products -- and is considered safe by the FDA.

Read the full report from ABC News here: http://abcn.ws/GQBZ3H