インジゴカルミン

Origin

Indigotine, also known as Indigo Carmine or FD&C Blue No. 2, is a synthetic organic dye derived from coal tar. It is a disulfonate salt of indigotin. It has been used as a food coloring agent for many years.

Usage

Indigotine is used to impart a blue color to foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. It is often used in combination with other dyes to create different shades of green and other colors. Common applications include: confectionery (candies, icings), baked goods, dairy products (ice cream, yogurt), beverages, and processed foods. It is also used in some pharmaceutical capsules and tablets as a coloring agent. In medicine, it is used as a dye for kidney function tests and cystoscopy.

Side Effects

Indigotine is generally considered safe for consumption within the established Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI). The ADI set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is 0-5 mg/kg body weight per day. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to indigotine, although such reactions are rare. Symptoms may include skin rashes, itching, or respiratory problems. High doses may cause gastrointestinal distress. There have been some studies suggesting a link between artificial food colorings and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is not conclusive, and the effects are likely to be small and vary among individuals.

Regulatory Status

Indigotine is approved for use as a food additive in many countries, including the United States, the European Union, Canada, and Australia. In the United States, it is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the name FD&C Blue No. 2. In the European Union, it is designated as E132. Regulations specify the maximum permitted levels of indigotine in various food products to ensure consumer safety.