Artificial Colors: FD&C Blue 1

FD&C Blue 1 is a synthetic food dye that imparts a bright blue color. It is produced through chemical synthesis, typically from petroleum-based raw materials.

Manufacturers use FD&C Blue 1 to add a blue color to a wide range of foods and beverages. It is commonly found in candies, soft drinks, baked goods, cereals, and some dairy products.

FD&C Blue 1 is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a color additive for use in food. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including FD&C Blue 1. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated FD&C Blue 1 and set an acceptable daily intake, and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also evaluated it. Concerns have been raised about a possible link between synthetic food dyes, including Blue 1, and hyperactivity in some children; however, scientific evidence on this topic is mixed, and further research is ongoing.