What is E133?
E133 is Brilliant Blue FCF — a synthetic triarylmethane dye, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
What is E133 (Brilliant Blue FCF)?
E133 is the E-number for brilliant blue fcf, 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 triarylmethane dye. Like every E-number, E133 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 E133 in detail below.
Where is E133 found?
E133 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 (E133) or by its full name, brilliant blue fcf. Common foods that may contain E133 include:
- Sweets
- Soft drinks
- Desserts
- Ice cream
- Sauces and snacks
Full guide: foods containing E133 and how to spot it on labels →
E133 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Brilliant Blue safe?
Is E133 safe?
E133 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 E133.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E133 vegan?
E133 is vegan. A synthetic triarylmethane dye, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E133 →Is E133 halal?
E133 is halal. A synthetic triarylmethane dye, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E133 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E133 in food?
E133 is Brilliant Blue FCF — a synthetic triarylmethane dye, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
Is E133 safe to eat?
Yes. E133 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E133 vegan?
E133 is vegan. A synthetic triarylmethane dye, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E133 halal?
E133 is halal. A synthetic triarylmethane 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).