Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
The Patent Blue V (E131 food additive) is a synthetic azo colorant with a dark blue-violet color. The Patent Blue V colorant is produced by synthesis from coal tar. The molecular formula of the E131 additive: C54H62CaN4O14S4.
Influence on the body
Harm
The use of the E131 colorant can lead to gastrointestinal disorders and allergic reactions, hyperactivity, hives, anaphylaxis and asthma attacks. Besides, the E131 additive should be excluded from the diet for people who are allergic to aspirin.
Benefit
Due to its synthetic origin, the E131 additive is not characteristic of living organisms. There is no scientific evidence of any benefits of the E131 food additive at the moment.
Use
In the food industry, the E131 additive is not widely used, but it can be found in minced meat, sausage and meat products. Recently, E131 colorant is often used in some types of beverages.
In addition to the food industry, the Patent blue V colorant is used in medicine, as a diagnostic paint for procedures.
Legal
The E131 additive is banned as a food coloring in Australia, the United States and Norway. In Ukraine and Russia Patent blue V colorant is allowed for use in foodstuffs as a purple colorant E131.
