E151 · Brilliant Black BN, Black PN
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Better avoided
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Better avoided
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Better avoided
What is E151?
Brilliant Black BN (also called Black PN) is a synthetic azo dye used to give foods a black or dark hue, found in items like confectionery, desserts, sauces, and some beverages. It is approved for use in the EU/UK with a set daily intake limit but is not permitted in food in the United States, Canada, or Japan. Some studies have linked azo dyes as a group to hyperactivity in children, which is why EU-sold products containing it must carry a warning label.
Also appears on labels as: Brilliant Black BN, Black PN, Brilliant Black, Black PN dye, Food Black 1, E151, E 151, E-151, CI 28440, Synthetic black dye, FD&C Black No. 1, Brilliant Black PN.
What the evidence says
- EU-mandated warning label: may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children (linked to azo dyes as a class).
- Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) set by EFSA (5 mg/kg bw/day); high-percentile intakes at maximum permitted levels can approach the ADI in worst-case scenarios.
- Rare hypersensitivity reactions (e.g. skin rashes) possible in susceptible individuals, particularly those with aspirin sensitivity.
Frequently asked questions
Is E151 safe?
Our overall verdict for E151 (Brilliant Black BN, Black PN) is “Better avoided”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: better avoided; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: better avoided; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: better avoided.
Is E151 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Brilliant Black BN, Black PN — 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 E151 and why is it used?
Brilliant Black BN (also called Black PN) is a synthetic azo dye used to give foods a black or dark hue, found in items like confectionery, desserts, sauces, and some beverages. It is approved for use in the EU/UK with a set daily intake limit but is not permitted in food in the United States, Canada, or Japan. Some studies have linked azo dyes as a group to hyperactivity in children, which is why EU-sold products containing it must carry a warning label.
Does E151 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Brilliant Black BN, Black PN, though some people report sensitivity (azo dye sensitivity, aspirin/salicylate sensitivity (rare cross-reactivity)).
Watch E151
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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.