E141 · Copper complexes of chlorophylls, copper complexes of chlorophyllins
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E141?
Copper complexes of chlorophylls and chlorophyllins are natural green colourants made by binding copper ions to chlorophyll extracted from plants, which improves the pigment's stability and color intensity compared to plain chlorophyll. They are used in candy, ice cream, and processed snacks and are approved as safe food colourants by EFSA and the FDA within regulatory limits.
Also appears on labels as: Copper complexes of chlorophylls, Copper complexes of chlorophyllins, Copper chlorophylls, Copper chlorophyllins, Copper chlorophyll complex, Copper chlorophyllin complex, Sodium copper chlorophyllin, Sodium copper chlorophyllins, Chlorophyll copper complex, Chlorophyllin copper complex, E141, E 141.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
- Adds a small amount of copper; not considered a health concern at approved 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 E141 safe?
Our overall verdict for E141 (Copper complexes of chlorophylls, copper complexes of 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 E141 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Copper complexes of chlorophylls, copper complexes of 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 E141 and why is it used?
Copper complexes of chlorophylls and chlorophyllins are natural green colourants made by binding copper ions to chlorophyll extracted from plants, which improves the pigment's stability and color intensity compared to plain chlorophyll. They are used in candy, ice cream, and processed snacks and are approved as safe food colourants by EFSA and the FDA within regulatory limits.
Does E141 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Copper complexes of chlorophylls, copper complexes of 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.