Brilliant Blue FCF
The short version
The dominant blue food colorant — used in candies, ice cream, and powdered drink mixes.
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.
Where it comes from
A synthetic triarylmethane dye developed in the late 19th century. Produced by condensing benzaldehyde-o-sulphonic acid with ethyl-benzyl-aniline-sulphonic acid.
How it's used
The dominant blue food colorant — used in soft drinks, candies, ice cream, dairy desserts, and powdered drink mixes. Often combined with E102 Tartrazine to produce greens. Typical use 25–100 mg/kg.
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.
Physical & chemical properties
Deep blue crystalline powder, very soluble in water. Stable to light, heat, and oxidation under most food conditions. Sulfonic groups give very high water solubility.
Regulation worldwide
Permitted globally. EU and US (FD&C Blue 1) without warning labels. Previously banned in several European countries on uncertain grounds; restrictions have since been lifted.
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.