Ingredient · E132

Indigotine

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Indigotine is used to impart a blue colour to a variety of food products. …

What is Indigotine?

Indigotine (E132) is a synthetic blue colourant. It is chemically similar to indigo, a natural dye derived from plants, but is produced synthetically for food use. It is manufactured through a complex chemical process.

Is Indigotine vegan?

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

Is Indigotine gluten-free?

It is a synthetic compound and does not contain gluten.

Is Indigotine a major allergen?

Indigotine is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.

What is Indigotine used for?

Indigotine is used to impart a blue colour to a variety of food products.

Is Indigotine safe?

Indigotine is an authorised food additive in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.

Why it's used

Indigotine is used to impart a blue colour to a variety of food products. It is commonly found in confectionery, baked goods, and beverages where a vibrant blue hue is desired. Its stability and colour intensity make it a popular choice for food manufacturers.

Health notes

Indigotine is an authorised food additive in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. European food safety authorities, including EFSA, have evaluated its safety. JECFA (the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) has also evaluated indigotine and set an acceptable daily intake. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some studies have explored potential links to hyperactivity in children, though scientific consensus and regulatory bodies have not established a causal link at permitted levels.

Regulatory status

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

Source: Food Standards Agency (OGL v3).

Allergen info

Indigotine is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is a synthetic compound and does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Indigotine

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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.