E133: Brilliant blue FCF
What is E133?
Brilliant blue FCF (E133) is a synthetic blue colour from the triarylmethane dye family. It is a water-soluble powder giving a vivid blue, and it is often blended with yellow colours to make green shades.
Origin and production
It is produced by chemical synthesis from petroleum-derived aromatic compounds and purified to meet food-grade specifications.
Why is it used?
Brilliant blue colours sweets, ice lollies, cake decorations, biscuits, desserts and some drinks. It is known as Blue 1 in the United States.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
Brilliant blue FCF is synthesised without animal ingredients and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It raises no particular halal or kosher issue.
Safety and regulation
Brilliant blue FCF is authorised in the EU with maximum levels and was re-evaluated by EFSA. EFSA's assessment indicated a possible risk of exceeding the acceptable daily intake for some population groups, particularly children who are high consumers, which led to revised use levels.
Written by the Foodlas editorial team with AI assistance and checked against EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 and EFSA scientific opinions. Last reviewed: October 14, 2026.
Sources: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 · EFSA — Food additives · Wikidata
Common in
Products containing E133
