Artificial Colors: Blue 1

Blue 1, also known as Brilliant Blue FCF, is a synthetic blue food coloring. It is manufactured from petroleum byproducts and is approved for use in the United States.

Manufacturers add Blue 1 to foods and beverages to provide a vibrant blue color. It is commonly found in candies, baked goods, dairy products like ice cream, and beverages such as sports drinks and sodas.

In the US, Blue 1 is an approved color additive. The FDA has evaluated its safety for consumption. Some studies have explored potential links between artificial food colorings and hyperactivity in children, but scientific reviews have had mixed conclusions, and the FDA notes that evidence is not sufficient to conclude that artificial colors cause hyperactivity in most children. JECFA and EFSA have also evaluated Blue 1.