Medium concernColorant
FD&C Blue 1
AllergenSkin irritant
What it is
A synthetic triphenylmethane blue dye.
What it does
Colorant for beverages, confections, oral hygiene products, and cosmetics.
Why it’s a concern
Animal studies report tumor induction at high oral doses; some regulators consider existing safety margins adequate, others disagree. Case reports describe absorption through compromised skin in burn patients causing blue discoloration of body fluids. Allergic reactions are reported.
Also known as
blue 1brilliant blue FCFCI 42090e133
CAS numbers
3844-45-9
Commonly found in
candytoothpastemouthwashsoft drinks
Safer alternatives
- spirulina extract
- butterfly pea flower
Sources
- CSPI Food Dyes Rainbow of Risks 2010