Brilliant blue
Learn what Brilliant blue (E133) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Brilliant blue?
A food additive from the category of synthetic colorants, derived from coal tar. It imparts a blue color and can be used alone or in combination with other colorants in a wide range of products, such as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, fruit and vegetable preserves, fat-based, fruit-based or milk-based desserts, cakes, biscuits, wafers, snacks, confectionery products, fish products, processed cheese, sauces, condiments, mustard, dietary supplements, and dietetic foods.
Why is Brilliant blue added to food?
Brilliant blue (E133) is a colorant commonly found in: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, fruit preserves, milk, snacks, sauces, condiments, mustard.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for humans is up to 12.5 mg/kg body weight.
Is Brilliant blue safe?
Low concern
Some individuals report allergic reactions.
Is Brilliant blue banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Brilliant blue okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Brilliant blue
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- fruit preserves
- milk
- snacks
- sauces
- condiments
- mustard
How to spot Brilliant blue on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E133
- Brilliant blue
Common misspellings to watch for:
- brilllant blue
- brillidnt blue
- brilliant blue
- brllliant blue
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions, especially in individuals sensitive to artificial colorants. • Excessive consumption can lead to digestive disturbances such as bloating or diarrhea. • May have adverse effects on behavior and attention in children, being linked to hyperactivity in some cases. • People with asthma or sensitivity to sulfites should avoid this colorant.
Also known as
- brilllant blue
- brillidnt blue
- brilliant blue
- brllliant blue
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Brilliant blue? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E133 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Brilliant blue
- Is Brilliant blue safe to eat?
- Some individuals report allergic reactions.
- Is Brilliant blue banned anywhere?
- Brilliant blue is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Brilliant blue safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Brilliant blue on a food label?
- Look for E133, Brilliant blue in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: brilllant blue, brillidnt blue, brilliant blue.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.