Tag: Indigo carmine

Originally derived from plants, the vast majority of indigo carmine used today is produced synthetically. This raises the question for conscious consumers: is indigo carmine vegan? While the dye itself doesn't contain animal products, the answer depends on your stance on animal testing and the distinction from other, non-vegan dyes.

According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), purified indigo carmine (E132) is considered safe for consumption within the established Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 5 mg/kg body weight. This synthetic blue food dye is widely used, yet its safety is a frequent consumer concern.

In many cultures, natural indigo dye has been used for centuries to color textiles, yet some indigo species are toxic if ingested. It is crucial to understand that not all substances referred to as "indigo" are safe for consumption, as the term applies to several different compounds with varying safety profiles.

Food and safety authorities in many regions, including the U.S. and Europe, have approved the synthetic dye indigo carmine (FD&C Blue No. 2) for limited use in food products. This fact, however, does not mean all forms of indigo are safe to consume, begging the question: Is indigo safe to consume? The answer is nuanced, depending on the source, processing, and intended use of the substance.

Over 90% of a food's sensory appeal is visual, and the food industry relies heavily on color to attract consumers. If you've ever wondered what is blue food dye called, the answer depends on whether it's a synthetic compound or a natural extract, as several varieties are used to create blue hues in foods and beverages.