Back to catalogSafety
E133ColorantModerate concern
Brilliant Blue FCF
In plain words
The short version
The dominant blue food colorant — used in candies, ice cream, and powdered drink mixes.
Why we flag it amber
A synthetic blue dye (Blue 1). It's approved worldwide, but as a synthetic 'coal-tar' colour it's part of the group linked in some studies to hyperactivity in sensitive children. It adds colour but nothing nutritional — that's why we flag it.
Safety profile
ADI of 6 mg/kg body weight. Generally considered safer than the azo class — not part of the Southampton six. Poorly absorbed from the gut; rare reports of dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Used clinically as an intravenous dye for procedural marking.
The detail
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.