It might sound wild, but one of history’s richest reds comes from crushed bugs—specifically, cochineal insects found on cactus pads.

Long before Europe caught on, the Aztecs and Mixtec had mastered the art of turning these tiny critters into a vibrant red dye. It was bold, lasting, and far better than anything else available. They used it for royal garments, artwork, and ceremonial dress.

When Hernán Cortés arrived in the 1500s, he was dazzled—not just by gold but by the vivid colors of Aztec textiles. Cochineal became “red gold,” and Spain tightly guarded the secret source. It quickly became one of the most valuable exports from the Americas, second only to silver.

Soon, Europe was hooked. Royalty, clergy, and the wealthy all wanted cochineal-dyed fabrics. And when confectioners discovered it was safe to eat, the dye made its way into candies, syrups, and cosmetics.

Today, that crimson lipstick or ruby red candy? Still likely made with help from these tiny, cactus-dwelling bugs.