Ingredient · Updated
Blue 1
Found in 22 productsSee all
Gatorade Zero GLACIER FREEZE ZERO SUGAR THIRST QUENCHER 
Gatorade Gatorlyte Glacier Freeze Sports Drink - Bottle 
Crystal Light On-The-Go Peach Mango Green Tea - / Pouches 
Turkey Hill Ice Cream Choco Mint Chip Ice Cream - 1.44 qt 
SweeTarts Ropes 
Altoids Spearmint Curiously Strong Mints 1.76 oz 
Jolly Rancher Hard Candy Sour Apple 
Trolli Sour Brite Crawlers What is Blue 1?
Blue 1, also known as Brilliant Blue FCF, is a synthetic dye produced from petroleum. It is commonly used in food and beverages to provide a bright blue color.
It is added to products like candy and cereals to enhance visual appeal. There has been some controversy over its safety, with some studies suggesting potential health impacts, but regulatory bodies have deemed it safe for use at current levels in food.
When you see Blue 1 on a label, it means the product contains this artificial coloring, which may be of concern to consumers looking to avoid synthetic additives.
Commonly found in: Candy, Cereal, Beverages, Ice cream, Bakery goods
What to watch
- Some studies suggested potential links to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Concerns have been raised about possible effects on children's behavior, though evidence is not conclusive.
The FDA approves Blue 1 for use in foods, drugs, and cosmetics with established safety levels.
While typically considered safe, some research has noted potential for allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children.
Blue 1 is synthetic and not derived from animal products, so it is generally considered vegan.
Sources: Color Additive Status List
Scout's take
Petroleum-derived synthetic dye.
The case against
Potential links to hyperactivity and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Altoids Spearmint Curiously Strong Mints 1.76 oz · echoed in 4 other analysesMay cause allergic reactions and has been associated with hyperactivity in children.
from the analysis of Kellogg's Froot LoopsAssociated with allergic reactions and potential health risks.
from the analysis of Crystal Light On-The-Go Peach Mango Green Tea - / PouchesMay cause allergic reactions and other health concerns.
from the analysis of Turkey Hill Ice Cream Choco Mint Chip Ice Cream - 1.44 qtThe case for
Provides appealing color to the product.
from the analysis of Gatorade Gatorlyte Glacier Freeze Sports Drink - BottleMore from Scout's analyses
Part of Colors. Artificial colors like Blue 1 and Yellow 5 are synthetic dyes used to enhance appearance. They have been linked to hyperactivity in children and other health concerns. These dyes are heavily processed and offer no nutritional value.
from the analysis of Altoids Spearmint Curiously Strong Mints 1.76 ozBlue 1 is an artificial dye used to provide color to the beverage. It is a synthetic compound that has been linked to allergic reactions and hyperactivity in sensitive individuals. Concerns exist about its safety and potential health impacts.
from the analysis of Gatorade Zero GLACIER FREEZE ZERO SUGAR THIRST QUENCHERBlue 1 is an artificial colorant used in various food products. It has been associated with allergic reactions and potential health risks in sensitive individuals. Its use is often criticized due to these concerns.
from the analysis of Crystal Light On-The-Go Peach Mango Green Tea - / PouchesAll 22 products with Blue 1
Where Blue 1 shows up
Higher-scoring picks without Blue 1
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Blue 1, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.