Brilliant Blue FCF
Also known as: FD&C Blue No. 1, Acid Blue 9, Erioglaucine
Colorants
Safety rating
Use Sparingly
Eat Away!Generally SafeUse SparinglyAvoid
Purpose and Function
Brilliant Blue FCF is a synthetic blue dye used to impart a vibrant blue color, often blended with yellow dyes like tartrazine to produce green shades, and also used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Commonly found in
- —Candies and beverages
- —Ice creams and baked goods
Key functions
- —Provides a vibrant blue color
- —Blends with yellow dyes to create green shades
Potential Risks and Side Effects
- 01Can cause allergic reactions, including rare anaphylaxis
- 02Linked to hyperactivity and behavioral changes in children in some studies
- 03A 2021 study raised questions about possible effects on gut microbiome and intestinal barrier function at excessive exposure
- 04Some countries require child-behavior warning labels