SEVERE — -15 pts

Blue 1 (Brilliant Blue FCF)

Flags: D-R05, T-R02

Also known as: Brilliant Blue FCF, FD&C Blue No. 1, E133, CI 42090

Kids BeveragesKids Toothpaste

What it is

Blue 1 is a synthetic triarylmethane dye used to produce blue and green colors in beverages, candy, ice cream, and oral care products. It is common in blue-colored sports drinks, berry-flavored beverages, and children's toothpaste.

SEVERE

AAP 2018 policy statement identified Blue 1 as having insufficient safety data for children. The EU requires a mandatory behavioral warning label. Blue 1 has shown evidence of crossing the blood-brain barrier in compromised individuals.

Why it matters

Insufficient long-term safety data specific to children (AAP 2018)
Can cross the blood-brain barrier, particularly in individuals with increased intestinal permeability
Allergic reactions including bronchospasm in sensitive individuals
Chromosomal aberration in some in vitro studies

The research

Food Additives and Child Health (AAP Policy Statement)

Trasande L, Shaffer RM, Sathyanarayana S. Pediatrics, 2018. 142(2):e20181408 PMID: 30037975 [Source]

"AAP identified food colors including Blue 1 among additives with insufficient pediatric safety data"

Who should care most

Children consuming blue or green-colored beverages, candy, or toothpaste. Individuals with GI permeability issues or sepsis (Blue 1 has been linked to adverse effects when used in enteral feeding dyes).

How other countries handle it

Country	Status
United States	Permitted. No restrictions on use in children's products.
European Union	Permitted with mandatory warning label (EU Regulation 1333/2008).
Canada	Permitted.
Australia	Permitted as E133.

Sources

Food Additives and Child Health (AAP Policy Statement). Trasande L, Shaffer RM, Sathyanarayana S. Pediatrics, 2018. 142(2):e20181408. PubMed 30037975

For informational purposes only. Not medical or dietary advice. Consult your pediatrician. Data current as of March 24, 2026.