Eat or Avoid
E140

Chlorophylls and Chlorophyllins

Also known as: Natural Green Color

Colorants

Safety rating

Eat Away!

Eat Away!Generally SafeUse SparinglyAvoid

Purpose and Function

Chlorophylls (natural green pigments extracted from plants) and their more stable water-soluble derivative Chlorophyllins are used as natural green colorants in confectionery, beverages, dairy, and processed foods.

Commonly found in

  • Candies, jellies, and gums
  • Health drinks and fruit juices
  • Green-colored yogurts and ice creams

Key functions

  • Provides a natural green color

Potential Risks and Side Effects

  1. 01Generally considered safe within regulated limits
  2. 02Rarely, individuals may experience allergic reactions or mild digestive discomfort in large amounts
  3. 03Copper-substituted chlorophyllins carry a theoretical copper-toxicity concern at excess, though regulatory limits prevent this in practice

References

    Related Additives