Where does E133 come from?

December 24, 2025 •

3 min read

Over 54% of food products analyzed in one study contained Brilliant Blue (E133), a finding that highlights its widespread use. But where does E133 come from, and how is this common food additive created? This synthetic coloring agent, known as Brilliant Blue FCF, is a product of complex chemical synthesis, not a natural extract.

Quick Summary

E133, or Brilliant Blue FCF, is a synthetic blue dye produced from petroleum-derived aromatic hydrocarbons through complex chemical processes. This artificial coloring agent is used extensively across the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries for its vibrant color and high stability.

Key Points

Synthetic Origin: E133 is a synthetic organic compound known as Brilliant Blue FCF, not a naturally occurring substance.
Petrochemical Basis: Its production starts with aromatic hydrocarbons, which are derived from petroleum.
Chemical Synthesis Process: The dye is created through a complex chemical process involving condensation and oxidation of petrochemical compounds.
Wide Applications: Besides its use in food, E133 is a common coloring agent in cosmetics, hygiene products, and even for scientific and technical purposes like water tracing.
Variable Regulation: While approved in many countries, some European nations have banned or restricted its use due to reported allergic reactions and hyperactivity concerns.
Natural Alternatives: Growing consumer interest has pushed manufacturers to seek more natural blue colorants, although these can be less stable than E133.

E133: A Synthetic Product of Chemical Synthesis

E133, scientifically known as Brilliant Blue FCF, is not a natural substance found in nature but a synthetic organic compound. Its origin traces back to petrochemicals, which are derived from petroleum. Specifically, it belongs to the triarylmethane class of dyes, which are known for producing vivid colors. The journey from crude oil to a vibrant food color is a complex and multi-stage chemical manufacturing process.

The Raw Materials and Chemical Process

The creation of E133 involves the chemical manipulation of aromatic hydrocarbons, such as benzene or naphthalene, which are petrochemicals. The primary process involves a condensation reaction, where 2-formylbenzenesulfonic acid reacts with an appropriate aniline derivative. This is followed by an oxidation step to produce the final dye molecule. The final product is typically a disodium salt, with the complex chemical formula C37H34N2Na2O9S3.

Key steps in the chemical synthesis of E133 include:

Sourcing Raw Materials: Aromatic hydrocarbons derived from petroleum serve as the base for the synthesis.
Condensation Reaction: 2-formylbenzenesulfonic acid and an aniline compound are combined.
Oxidation: The chemical structure is oxidized to form the characteristic triarylmethane backbone.
Salt Formation: The final molecule is converted into its stable and water-soluble form, typically a disodium salt.
Purification: The crude product is purified to ensure it is safe for food-grade applications.

Versatile Applications Beyond Food Coloring

While most commonly known for its role in coloring foods and beverages, the vibrant and stable properties of E133 make it valuable in numerous other industries. Its water solubility and resistance to degradation from light and heat are key factors in its versatility.

Cosmetics and Hygiene Products: E133 is used to color a wide range of products, including shampoos, mouthwashes, soaps, and creams.
Technical and Industrial Uses: Due to its ability to retain color for long periods, it is used as a water tracer in environmental studies to track water flow. It is also utilized in textiles and ink production.
Biomedical Research: In scientific and medical contexts, its low toxicity has led to its use as a biological stain for cells and bacteria. Some studies have also explored its potential therapeutic effects in treating spinal cord injuries.

Comparison of E133 (Brilliant Blue FCF) and Natural Blue Alternatives


Feature	E133 (Brilliant Blue FCF)	Natural Blue Alternatives (e.g., Phycocyanin)
Source	Petroleum-derived synthetic organic compound	Extracted from natural sources like spirulina algae
Production Process	Complex, multi-stage chemical synthesis	Water-based extraction and purification
Color Intensity	Very high, producing vibrant, consistent blue tones	Variable; can be less intense and stable
Stability	Highly resistant to light, heat, and acidic conditions	Often less stable, sensitive to heat and pH changes
Cost	Typically low cost due to mass production methods	Often higher cost due to natural sourcing and extraction
Regulatory Status	Approved in many regions (e.g., US, EU) but with restrictions or bans in some countries	Generally considered safer, with broader acceptance, though regulation varies
Versatility	Excellent for a wide range of food and non-food applications	Applications can be limited by stability and source

Health and Regulatory Landscape

Regulatory bodies like the U.S. FDA and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have reviewed and set acceptable daily intake (ADI) levels for E133. However, public interest in natural alternatives and continued research into synthetic dyes have led to regulatory changes in some regions. For instance, some countries like France, Germany, and Norway have placed restrictions or bans on E133, particularly in children's foods, due to concerns over allergic reactions and potential links to hyperactivity. Consequently, some manufacturers have shifted to natural colorings in response to consumer demand.

Conclusion: A Man-Made Colorant

E133, or Brilliant Blue FCF, is a synthetic dye with a purely chemical origin, produced from petroleum-based raw materials. Its journey from crude oil to a water-soluble powder is a testament to modern industrial chemistry, and its use spans far beyond the foods we consume. Despite its effectiveness in delivering stable and intense color, ongoing public debate and evolving research into potential health effects have prompted some countries to restrict its use and food manufacturers to explore natural alternatives. Ultimately, where E133 comes from is a chemical factory, not nature, and understanding this provides consumers with greater knowledge about the ingredients in their everyday products.

For more comprehensive information on food additives, including a detailed list and regulatory status, consult the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) website.

Frequently Asked Questions

E133 is an artificial or synthetic food coloring. It is manufactured in a lab from petroleum-derived compounds, not extracted from natural sources.

The common name for E133 is Brilliant Blue FCF. In the United States, it is also known as FD&C Blue No. 1.

E133 is used in a wide variety of products, including soft drinks, candies, ice cream, canned peas, and certain dairy products. It can also be found in cosmetics and hygiene products.

Regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA have approved E133 for use within specific limits, suggesting it is safe for consumption in approved doses. However, some countries have restrictions, and sensitive individuals may experience allergic reactions.

While regulatory bodies deem it safe within established limits, some have linked E133 to allergic reactions, and some studies have investigated potential links to hyperactivity in children. In very high, non-dietary doses, animal studies show some effects, but this is not comparable to typical human consumption.

Some countries, including France, Germany, and Norway, have banned or restricted E133 due to concerns over allergic reactions and potential links to hyperactivity in sensitive individuals, though regulations can change.

Natural blue colorants, such as those derived from spirulina algae (phycocyanin), serve as alternatives to E133. However, they can be less stable and more expensive than their synthetic counterpart.