Brown HT (E155) — What You Need to Know
What Is Brown HT?
Brown HT is a synthetic azo dye that produces a chocolate brown color in foods. It is one of the most restricted food colorings still permitted anywhere, banned in the United States and most of continental Europe. Its very low ADI of 1.5 mg/kg bw/day reflects significant safety concerns.
What Is It Used For?
Provides brown coloring to chocolate-flavored products, confectionery, and canned goods. Use is extremely limited, mainly confined to the UK and a few other countries.
Safety Assessment
Banned in numerous countries including the United States and most of continental Europe. Very low ADI (1.5 mg/kg bw/day) reflects significant safety concerns. EU requires warning label: 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.' One of the most restricted synthetic food dyes still permitted anywhere. EFSA noted limited data and called for additional studies. As an azo dye, it may release aromatic amines during metabolism.
Based on current evidence, Brown HT 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: 2014. A typical diet provides about 0.2% of the acceptable daily intake.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E155 or 'Brown HT'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Brown HT
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E155
- INS Number
- 155
- Category
- Colorings
- Origin
- Synthetic
- FDA Status
- Not approved
- EFSA Status
- Authorized in EU with mandatory warning label: 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children'
- ADI
- 1.5 mg/kg bw/day
- Last Review
- 2014
Related Additives
Other colorings in the same family