E143 · Fast Green FCF
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe in moderation
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Safe in moderation
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe in moderation
What is E143?
Fast Green FCF is a synthetic green triarylmethane dye used to color confectionery, baked goods, and some beverages. It is approved for food use in the United States, though it is not authorized as a food colorant in the EU. It is generally considered safe at approved levels, with only rare reports of hypersensitivity reactions.
Also appears on labels as: Fast Green FCF, E143, E 143, E-143, INS 143, FD&C Green No. 3, FD&C Green 3, Green 3, Food Green 3, Acid Green 3, CI 42053, Colour Index 42053.
What the evidence says
- Possible allergic or hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., hives, skin reactions) in sensitive individuals, though rare.
- As a synthetic dye, it is subject to ongoing scrutiny by some consumer advocacy groups regarding behavioral effects in children, though major regulators consider it safe at approved levels.
Frequently asked questions
Is E143 safe?
Our overall verdict for E143 (Fast Green FCF) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe in moderation; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: safe in moderation; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe in moderation.
Is E143 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Fast Green FCF — 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 E143 and why is it used?
Fast Green FCF is a synthetic green triarylmethane dye used to color confectionery, baked goods, and some beverages. It is approved for food use in the United States, though it is not authorized as a food colorant in the EU. It is generally considered safe at approved levels, with only rare reports of hypersensitivity reactions.
Does E143 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Fast Green FCF, though some people report sensitivity (hives, skin reactions).
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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.