What is E132?
E132 is Indigo Carmine (Indigotine) — a synthetic indigo dye, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
What is E132 (Indigo Carmine)?
E132 is the E-number for indigo carmine, one of the food colourings group of food additives (E100–E199). Additives in this group add or restore colour to foods and drinks. A synthetic indigo dye. Like every E-number, E132 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E132 in detail below.
Where is E132 found?
E132 is typically used in sweets, soft drinks, desserts, ice cream, sauces and snacks. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E132) or by its full name, indigo carmine. Common foods that may contain E132 include:
- Sweets
- Soft drinks
- Desserts
- Ice cream
- Sauces and snacks
Full guide: foods containing E132 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E132 safe?
E132 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E132.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E132 vegan?
E132 is vegan. A synthetic indigo dye, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E132 →Is E132 halal?
E132 is halal. A synthetic indigo dye, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E132 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E132 in food?
E132 is Indigo Carmine (Indigotine) — a synthetic indigo dye, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
Is E132 safe to eat?
Yes. E132 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E132 vegan?
E132 is vegan. A synthetic indigo dye, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E132 halal?
E132 is halal. A synthetic indigo dye, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).