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E142ColorantModerate concern
Green S
In plain words
The short version
A synthetic triarylmethane green dye — used in mint products and tinned vegetables.
Why we flag it amber
It's permitted and generally considered safe, but there are a few reasons to be mindful — like sensitivities in some people, debated studies, or intake limits. The Safety section below explains the specifics.
Safety profile
ADI of 5 mg/kg body weight. Not part of the Southampton six but classified for review on similar behavioral grounds. Some studies raise questions about gut absorption and metabolism; further research is ongoing.
The detail
A synthetic triarylmethane dye developed in the early 20th century. Produced from petroleum-derived intermediates. Widely used in European confectionery and tinned vegetables.
Used to color mint sauces, tinned green peas, ice creams, and confectionery a vivid green. Often combined with E102 Tartrazine for olive shades. Largely absent from North American food due to non-approval.
Bright green crystalline powder, very soluble in water. Stable in acidic and neutral conditions; sensitive to strong reducing agents.
Permitted in the EU. Not approved in the US, Canada, or Japan. In Australia and New Zealand it is listed as a colouring permitted to a maximum level (Food Standards Code, Schedule 16).
Sources
- EFSA — Scientific Opinion on the re-evaluation of Green S (E 142) as a food additive (2010) — EFSA (EFSA Journal 2010;8(11):1851, PMC copy), 2010. ADI 5 mg/kg bw/day retained; authorised in the EU
- WHO JECFA database — Green S (INS 142) — WHO / JECFA, 1974. JECFA has no ADI for Green S (temporary ADI withdrawn)
- Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code — Schedule 16, Types of substances that may be used as food additives (compilation No. 3, in force 16 Sep 2025) — Federal Register of Legislation (Australia) / FSANZ, 2025. Green S is permitted in Australia/NZ as a colouring with maximum levels
- EUR-Lex — Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, consolidated text 18.08.2026 (Annex II) — EUR-Lex (European Union), 2026. EU authorisation with maximum levels
Checked against these sources on .
Educational information only. Not medical, dietary or veterinary advice. Spotted an error? Tell us.