Ingredient · E142

Green s

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Green s is used to provide a green colour to a variety of foods …

What is Green s?

Green s is a synthetic organic compound that is a green dye. It is synthesised from coal tar and is a common food colouring.

Is Green s vegan?

Green s is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Green s a major allergen?

Green s is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.

What is Green s used for?

Green s is used to provide a green colour to a variety of foods and drinks.

Is Green s safe?

Green s is an authorised food additive in the UK and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.

Why it's used

Green s is used to provide a green colour to a variety of foods and drinks. It is often found in confectionery, cordials, and baked goods such as baklava.

Health notes

Green s is an authorised food additive in the UK and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated Green s. Evidence regarding the effects of artificial food colourings on children's behaviour is mixed, and some studies suggest a link, while others have not found one. The UK government's dietary advice does not set specific limits for Green s.

Regulatory status

Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products

Permitted uses in the EU

Green S · legislation: (EU) No 0232/2012

Food categoryMaximum level
4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetables10
4.2.5 jam jellies and marmalades and similar products100
4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC100
4.2.5.3 other similar fruit or vegetable spreads100
9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans100
9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans250

Maximum levels are shown as published (mg/kg or mg/l, depending on the food). Some entries carry extra conditions and group authorisations are not listed here, so check the full entry before relying on a figure.

Substance is included in Group III, see also authorisation for Group III

Sources: Food Standards Agency (OGL v3); European Commission, Food Additives Database.

Allergen info

Green s is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not derived from any of these allergens.

Foods that contain Green s

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: 17 October 2026

Note: This site presents label data from Open Food Facts for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.