What is E140?
E140 is Chlorophylls — extracted from green plants such as grass, nettles and alfalfa, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
What is E140 (Chlorophylls)?
E140 is the E-number for chlorophylls, one of the food colourings group of food additives (E100–E199). Additives in this group add or restore colour to foods and drinks. Extracted from green plants such as grass, nettles and alfalfa. Like every E-number, E140 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 E140 in detail below.
Where is E140 found?
E140 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 (E140) or by its full name, chlorophylls. Common foods that may contain E140 include:
- Sweets
- Soft drinks
- Desserts
- Ice cream
- Sauces and snacks
Full guide: foods containing E140 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E140 safe?
E140 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 E140.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E140 vegan?
E140 is vegan. Extracted from green plants such as grass, nettles and alfalfa, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E140 →Is E140 halal?
E140 is halal. Extracted from green plants such as grass, nettles and alfalfa, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E140 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E140 in food?
E140 is Chlorophylls — extracted from green plants such as grass, nettles and alfalfa, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
Is E140 safe to eat?
Yes. E140 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E140 vegan?
E140 is vegan. Extracted from green plants such as grass, nettles and alfalfa, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E140 halal?
E140 is halal. Extracted from green plants such as grass, nettles and alfalfa, 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).