Indigo Carmine (E132) — What You Need to Know
What Is Indigo Carmine?
Indigo Carmine, also known as Indigotine, is a synthetic blue dye derived from indigo. It is one of the oldest synthetic food colorings and is approved in both the EU (as E132) and the US (as FD&C Blue No. 2).
What Is It Used For?
Provides blue and blue-purple shades in confectionery, ice cream, baked goods, and pharmaceutical tablets. Often combined with other colors to achieve green and purple hues.
Safety Assessment
Generally well-tolerated. Some studies suggest very minor effects on gut bacteria at high doses. Can cause nausea and skin rashes in sensitive individuals. Lower concern profile than most synthetic dyes. EFSA re-evaluated in 2014 and maintained ADI at 5 mg/kg bw/day.
Based on current evidence, Indigo Carmine is rated Caution with a score of 6/10. This is 0.2 points above the average for colorings (5.8/10). Last reviewed by regulators: 2014. A typical diet provides about 0% of the acceptable daily intake.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E132 or 'Indigo Carmine'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Indigo Carmine
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E132
- INS Number
- 132
- Category
- Colorings
- Origin
- Synthetic
- FDA Status
- Approved (FD&C Blue No. 2)
- EFSA Status
- Approved in EU with ADI of 5 mg/kg bw/day (re-evaluated 2014)
- ADI
- 5 mg/kg bw/day
- Last Review
- 2014
Related Additives
Other colorings in the same family