Blue #1 Gum Arabic
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What it is
Blue #1, also known as Brilliant Blue FCF, is a synthetic food dye made from petroleum. Gum Arabic, or acacia gum, is a natural gum harvested from the sap of acacia trees. These two ingredients are often combined, with gum arabic acting as a carrier or stabilizer for the blue dye.
Why it's used
This ingredient is primarily used to add a blue color to foods. It is commonly found in products such as baking decorations, dessert toppings, cakes, cupcakes, and snack cakes to provide a vibrant blue hue.
Health notes
Blue #1 is an FDA-approved synthetic color additive. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Blue #1. Some research has explored a possible link between synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is mixed, and major health organizations continue to review the data. Both JECFA and EFSA have evaluated Blue #1 and set acceptable daily intakes. Gum Arabic is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA and has been evaluated by JECFA, which did not set a numeric limit.
Allergen info
Neither Blue #1 nor Gum Arabic are derived from any of the 9 major FDA allergens. Not a major allergen.