What is E127? Erythrosine Explained
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E127 is Erythrosine — a colour (synthetic dye) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks.
What is E127 (Erythrosine)?
E127 is Erythrosine, a food additive classified as a colour that give food its colour. A colour (synthetic dye) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks. You'll find it in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks, cake icing and many other packaged foods. Like every E-number, E127 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Where is E127 found?
E127 (Erythrosine) is found in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks, cake icing, jams and preserves, ready meals, desserts.
- sweets and confectionery
- soft drinks
- cake icing
- jams and preserves
- ready meals
- desserts
Is E127 safe?
E127 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Erythrosine in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either active scientific debate, mandatory warning labels, allergen status, or conditions attached to its authorisation.
EFSA opinion: Erythrosine — status Some concerns.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E127. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Cleaner alternatives to E127
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E127 FAQs
What is E127 in food?
E127 is Erythrosine — a colour (synthetic dye) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks.
Is E127 safe to eat?
E127 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Erythrosine in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either active
Is E127 vegan?
E127 (Erythrosine) is vegan. It is derived from synthetic dye, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E127 halal?
E127 (Erythrosine) is halal. It is derived from synthetic dye, which involves no haram sources.
Related Colours additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA