A family in central Mexico is working to preserve the production of Cochineal Dye, a valuable natural red pigment. The dye, derived from insects that feed on nopal cactus plants, was highly prized by the Spanish nobility and used to dye clothing and military uniforms. The traditional process of obtaining the dye is slow and labor-intensive, but artisans in Oaxaca still prefer it for their handicrafts. As concerns about the health effects of synthetic dyes increase, there is a growing demand for natural colorings, leading to a resurgence in the use of cochineal dye. However, mass production is not possible due to the labor-intensive nature of the process.

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