E155 · Brown HT
- WHO
- Use caution
- FDA
- Better avoided
- EFSA
- Use caution
- FSANZ
- Use caution
- Japan
- Use caution
- UK FSA
- Use caution
- Health Canada
- Better avoided
What is E155?
Brown HT is a synthetic azo dye that gives foods a chocolate-brown color, used in some chocolate-flavored products, sauces, and baked goods. It is approved for use in the EU/UK within set limits but is not permitted as a food colorant in the United States. As with other azo dyes, EU-sold foods containing it must carry a warning label about possible effects on children's activity and attention.
Also appears on labels as: Brown HT, E155, E-155, E 155, Chocolate Brown HT, Food Brown 3, C.I. 20285, CI Food Brown HT, Brown HT dye, Brown HT colour, Brown HT color, Synthetic brown dye E155.
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).
- Not approved for food use in the United States.
- Rare hypersensitivity reactions possible in susceptible individuals.
Frequently asked questions
Is E155 safe?
Our overall verdict for E155 (Brown HT) is “Better avoided”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: better avoided; WHO: use caution; EFSA: use caution; FSANZ: use caution; Japan: use caution; UK FSA: use caution; Health Canada: better avoided.
Is E155 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Brown HT — 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 E155 and why is it used?
Brown HT is a synthetic azo dye that gives foods a chocolate-brown color, used in some chocolate-flavored products, sauces, and baked goods. It is approved for use in the EU/UK within set limits but is not permitted as a food colorant in the United States. As with other azo dyes, EU-sold foods containing it must carry a warning label about possible effects on children's activity and attention.
Does E155 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Brown HT, though some people report sensitivity (azo dye sensitivity).
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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.