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Scientific Sources: 18
Brilliant Blue FCF, also known as Blue 1, is a synthetic food coloring used in various products, including processed foods, drugs, cosmetics, and dietary supplements [14], [27], [29]. It is a triarylmethane dye that appears as a blue powder and is soluble in water [27].
A synthetic organic colorant primarily used in processed foods, medications, dietary supplements, and cosmetics [27], [29]. It belongs to the class of triarylmethane dyes [8], [27].
Cotton candy [29]
Ice cream [29]
Canned processed peas [29]
Packet soups [29]
Bottled food colorings [29]
Icings [29]
Ice pops [29]
Blueberry flavored products [29]
Children's medications [29]
Dairy products [28]
Decorations for baking [28]
Flavored water [28]
Frozen treats [28]
Cosmetics [28]
Ingested drugs [28]
Studies suggest potential neurobehavioral effects in some children [20], [21], [22], [34]
Some research indicates cytotoxic and genotoxic potential on human blood [8]
Animal studies have not shown consistent, significant compound-related adverse effects [12]
Brilliant Blue FCF is mostly excreted unchanged via feces [8]
Lifetime toxicity/carcinogenicity studies of FD & C Blue No. 1 (brilliant blue FCF) in rats and mice
The no-observed-adverse-effect levels are dietary concentrations of 2.0% for male rats (1072 mg/kg body weight/day), and 1.0% for female rats (631 mg/kg/day). The no-observed-adverse-effect level established in mice is a dietary concentration of 5.0% (7354 mg/kg/day and 8966 mg/kg/day for male and female mice, respectively) [12].
The Effects of Natural and Synthetic Blue Dyes on Human Health: A Review of Current Knowledge and Therapeutic Perspectives
Some studies indicate that Blue No. 1 may have toxic effects [4], [5].
Safety and efficacy of Brilliant Blue FCF (E133) as a feed additive for cats and dogs
Brilliant Blue FCF is considered safe for cats and dogs up to a maximum concentration of 278 and 334 mg/kg complete feed, respectively [9], [19].
Biochemical processes mediating neurotoxicity induced by synthetic food dyes: A review of current evidence
Synthetic food dyes, including Brilliant Blue FCF, can impact brain function and overall neurological health by affecting oxidative stress, neurotransmitter imbalances, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammatory responses [6].
Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) within established Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) limits by regulatory bodies like the FDA and JECFA [13], [14], [28].
While regulatory bodies consider Brilliant Blue FCF safe at approved levels, some studies suggest potential adverse effects, particularly concerning neurobehavioral changes in children and potential toxicity. More research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of synthetic food dyes [4], [5], [6], [20], [21], [22], [34].