E131 - Bleu patenté V

Origin

Patent Blue V is a synthetic food coloring derived from triarylmethane chemistry. It is a disulfonated triarylmethane dye. It was initially developed as a textile dye but later found application in the food industry due to its vibrant blue hue.

Usage

Patent Blue V is used as a food coloring agent to impart a blue color to various food products. It is commonly found in confectionery, desserts, beverages, and processed foods. It is often used in combination with other food colorings to achieve desired shades of green or purple. The color is pH-dependent, becoming more green in alkaline conditions. It is also used in some pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. In medicine, it is used in lymphangiography and sentinel node biopsy.

Side Effects

Patent Blue V is generally considered safe for consumption within the permitted levels. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 0-2.5 mg/kg body weight. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Patent Blue V, although such reactions are rare. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include skin rashes, itching, or respiratory problems. There have been reports of hypotension and nausea associated with its use in lymphangiography. Individuals with known allergies to triarylmethane dyes should avoid products containing Patent Blue V.

Regulatory Status

Patent Blue V is approved for use as a food additive in the European Union (EU) under the E number E131. It is also permitted in other countries, including Australia and Canada, subject to specific regulations and limitations on its use. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has re-evaluated the safety of Patent Blue V and has established an ADI. Regulations specify the maximum permitted levels of Patent Blue V in different food categories to ensure consumer safety.