Brilliant Black BN (E151) — What You Need to Know
What Is Brilliant Black BN?
Brilliant Black BN is a synthetic azo dye that produces a black color in foods. It is one of the most restricted food dyes, banned in the United States, Canada, Japan, and several other countries. In the EU, it requires a mandatory warning label regarding potential effects on children's attention and behavior.
What Is It Used For?
Provides black coloring to confectionery, liquorice, sauces, and other dark-colored food products. Used mainly in the EU and UK where it remains permitted.
Safety Assessment
Banned in the US, Canada, Japan, Australia, and several European countries. EU requires warning label: 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.' Azo dye that may release aromatic amines upon metabolism. EFSA re-evaluated in 2010 and maintained ADI but noted some data gaps. Part of the group of synthetic azo dyes under ongoing regulatory scrutiny due to links to hyperactivity in children.
Based on current evidence, Brilliant Black BN is rated Questionable with a score of 3/10. This is 2.8 points below the average for colorings (5.8/10). Last reviewed by regulators: 2010.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E151 or 'Brilliant Black BN'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Brilliant Black BN
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E151
- INS Number
- 151
- Category
- Colorings
- Origin
- Synthetic
- FDA Status
- Not approved
- EFSA Status
- Authorized with mandatory warning label: 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children'
- ADI
- 5 mg/kg bw/day
- Last Review
- 2010
Related Additives
Other colorings in the same family