What is E131? Patent Blue V Explained
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E131 is Patent Blue V — a colour (synthetic dye) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks.
What is E131 (Patent Blue V)?
E131 is Patent Blue V, 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, E131 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 E131 found?
E131 (Patent Blue V) 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 E131 safe?
E131 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Patent Blue V 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: Patent Blue V — status Some concerns.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E131. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Cleaner alternatives to E131
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E131 FAQs
What is E131 in food?
E131 is Patent Blue V — a colour (synthetic dye) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks.
Is E131 safe to eat?
E131 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Patent Blue V in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either acti
Is E131 vegan?
E131 (Patent Blue V) is vegan. It is derived from synthetic dye, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E131 halal?
E131 (Patent Blue V) 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