E180 · Litolrubine BK
- WHO
- Better avoided
- FDA
- Better avoided
- EFSA
- Better avoided
- FSANZ
- Better avoided
- Japan
- Better avoided
- UK FSA
- Better avoided
- Health Canada
- Better avoided
What is E180?
Litolrubine BK (Lithol Rubine BK, C.I. Pigment Red 57:1) is a synthetic azo dye. In the EU it is authorised as a food colour under a single, tightly restricted use: colouring the inedible outer rind of certain cheeses, so it does not normally reach the edible portion of the food. It is not permitted as a food additive in the US, Canada, or Australia, though it is used in some non-food applications like cosmetics and printing inks.
Also appears on labels as: Litolrubine BK, Litol Rubine BK, Litolrubin BK, Rubine BK, Pigment Rubine BK, Pigment Rubine, Rubine (E180), E180, E 180, E-180, CI Pigment Rubine, C.I. Pigment Rubine BK.
What the evidence says
- Belongs to the azo dye class; some azo dyes have been linked to hyperactivity in sensitive children, though this specific colour's dietary exposure is minimal given its single, surface-only authorised use.
- Not permitted for food use in several jurisdictions (US, Canada, Australia), reflecting differing regulatory risk assessments.
- Limited human dietary exposure data given its narrow authorised use on cheese rind only.
Research behind the verdict
- Litholrubine BK (E180) – Safety Review — EFSA Panel on Food Additives, EFSA Journal (2010). EFSA ADI 1.5 mg/kg bw/day; use restricted to cheese rinds; considered safe within ADI.[safe_in_moderation]
Frequently asked questions
Is E180 safe?
Our overall verdict for E180 (Litolrubine BK) is “Better avoided”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: better avoided; WHO: better avoided; EFSA: better avoided; FSANZ: better avoided; Japan: better avoided; UK FSA: better avoided; Health Canada: better avoided.
Is E180 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Litolrubine BK — 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 E180 and why is it used?
Litolrubine BK (Lithol Rubine BK, C.I. Pigment Red 57:1) is a synthetic azo dye. In the EU it is authorised as a food colour under a single, tightly restricted use: colouring the inedible outer rind of certain cheeses, so it does not normally reach the edible portion of the food. It is not permitted as a food additive in the US, Canada, or Australia, though it is used in some non-food applications like cosmetics and printing inks.
Does E180 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Litolrubine BK.
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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.