Chlorophyllins
Also known as: E140ii, Sodium Chlorophyllin, E140
Chlorophyll and chlorophyllins (E140) are EU-authorized food colors and GRAS in the U.S. for natural color use.
What it is
Chlorophyllins (E140(ii)), water-soluble derivatives of chlorophyll, used as a green food coloring.
Natural green color in foods, beverages, and confectionery.
Why it's flagged
- very rare gastrointestinal upset at very high supplemental doses
What regulators actually say
"EFSA concluded that the existing data do not indicate adverse effects at the reported uses and use levels and that an ADI is not necessary for chlorophylls and chlorophyllins (E 140)."
"Chlorophylls and chlorophyllins (E 140) are authorised food colours listed in Annex II of Regulation 1333/2008."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Chlorophyll permitted as a color additive (e.g., 21 CFR 73.125 for sodium copper chlorophyllin in certain dentifrice; food uses limited; in U.S., chlorophyllins generally used as 'natural color' GRAS only).
European Union — EFSA
E140(ii) chlorophyllins authorized under EU Regulation 1333/2008; re-evaluated as safe in EFSA 2015.
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