E140 · Chlorophylls, chlorophyllins
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E140?
Chlorophylls and chlorophyllins are natural green pigments derived from plants, where they play a key role in photosynthesis. Chlorophyllins are water-soluble derivatives made by modifying the chlorophyll molecule (often replacing its magnesium with copper) to improve stability for use in foods and beverages. Both are used as natural green colourants in confectionery and processed foods and are considered safe by EFSA and the FDA within regulatory limits.
Also appears on labels as: Chlorophylls, Chlorophyllins, Chlorophyll extract, Chlorophyllin extract, Natural green, CI Natural Green 3, E140, E 140, E-140, E140(i), E140(ii), Copper complexes of chlorophylls.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
- Copper-containing chlorophyllin forms (E141) contribute a small amount of copper; not a concern at typical food-colouring levels.
Research behind the verdict
- Chlorophylls (E140) Safety Synopsis — Maria Manuela Silva; Fernando Henrique Reboredo; Fernando Cebola Lidon, Foods (2022). 2022 review: natural dietary pigments; largely excreted; consumption as additives poses no safety concern at reported uses.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E140 safe?
Our overall verdict for E140 (Chlorophylls, chlorophyllins) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E140 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Chlorophylls, chlorophyllins — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E140 and why is it used?
Chlorophylls and chlorophyllins are natural green pigments derived from plants, where they play a key role in photosynthesis. Chlorophyllins are water-soluble derivatives made by modifying the chlorophyll molecule (often replacing its magnesium with copper) to improve stability for use in foods and beverages. Both are used as natural green colourants in confectionery and processed foods and are considered safe by EFSA and the FDA within regulatory limits.
Does E140 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Chlorophylls, chlorophyllins.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.