Blue 1 Lake

Blue 1 Lake is an insoluble pigment derived from FD&C Blue No. 1, also known as Brilliant Blue FCF. It is created by combining the synthetic dye with an aluminum hydroxide substrate. This process results in a stable, non-bleeding color that is particularly useful in products with low moisture content.

Manufacturers add Blue 1 Lake primarily as a color additive to impart a blue hue to various food products. It is frequently used in candies, chewing gum, baked goods, and snack foods where a water-soluble dye might bleed or migrate.

Blue 1 Lake is an FDA-approved color additive for use in food. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Blue 1 (and its lakes), from the food supply. JECFA has evaluated Brilliant Blue FCF (Blue 1) and set an acceptable daily intake, and EFSA has also evaluated it. There has been discussion about a possible link between synthetic food colors, including Blue 1, and hyperactivity in some children, though scientific evidence on this topic is mixed.