Blue #1 And Titanium Dioxide And Shellac

This combination includes Blue #1, a synthetic color made from petroleum; titanium dioxide, a naturally occurring mineral; and shellac, a natural resin secreted by lac bugs. Blue #1 is produced through chemical synthesis, while titanium dioxide is mined and processed. Shellac is harvested from trees where lac bugs secrete it.

Blue #1 is used to give foods a blue color. Titanium dioxide is used to whiten or brighten foods, and shellac acts as a glazing agent to create a shiny, protective coating. These ingredients are often used together in decorative food items like sprinkles and dessert toppings.

Blue #1 is an FDA-approved color additive; however, in April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Blue #1. JECFA has evaluated Blue #1 and set an acceptable daily intake. Titanium dioxide is permitted by the FDA, and JECFA has evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake, though the EU banned it as a food additive in 2022 after EFSA concluded it could no longer be considered safe. Shellac is an FDA-approved food additive, and JECFA has evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake.