Chlorophylls
Chlorophylls INS 140 , E 140 (i) · Chlorophyllins, E 140 (ii) · Copper Complexes of the Chlorophylls INS 141 (i), E 141 (i) · Copper Complexes of the Chlorophyllins INS 141 (ii), E 141 (ii)
Chlorophylls are the most abundant natural pigments found in nature and are responsible for the green colouration of plants and the process of photosynthesis. As food colours, chlorophylls and their derivatives provide green hues ranging from olive green to bright green, depending on their chemical form.
Chlorophylls E 140 (i)
- Typically green, oil-soluble pigments obtained from extraction of green plant material such as grass, lucerne, or nettle.
- Principal colouring matters: Magnesium chlorophylls and phaeophytins
Chlorophyllins E 140 (ii)
- Chlorophyllins are water‑soluble derivatives of chlorophyll, produced through saponification
Copper Chlorophylls E 141 (i)
- Formed by replacing magnesium with copper in the chlorophyll molecule
- Principal colouring matters: Copper phaeophytins
- This produces a bright, stable green with enhanced resistance to:
- Heat
- Light
- Acid
Copper Chlorophyllin E 141 (ii)
- Copper chlorophyllins are water‑soluble derivatives of chlorophyll, produced through saponification and the addition of Copper to the purified chlorophyllins
Applications in the Food Industry such as:
- Confectionery
- Desserts
- Beverages
- Dairy products
- Ice cream and water ice
- Fruit preparations
- Bakery wares
- Soups and sauces
- Seasonings
Specification and Regulatory status
- USA:
Sodium copper chlorophyllin with restricted use: it may be safely used to color citrus-based dry beverage mixes in an amount not exceeding 0.2 percent in the dry mix.
https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-A/part-73/subpart-A/section-73.125 - CODEX:
Chlorophylls INS 140 –
JECFA specification – JECFA evaluationCopper Complexes of the Chlorophylls INS 141 (i) –
JECFA specification INS 141(i) – JECFA EvaluationCopper Complexes of the Chlorophyllins INSE 141 (ii) –
JECFA specification INS 141 (ii) – JECFA evaluation
- EU:
Chlorophylls E 140 (i), Chlorophyllins E 140 (ii), Copper Complexes of the Chlorophylls and Chlorophyllins E 141 (ii) – Purity criteria Regulation 231/2012
Group II: Colour at quantum satis – Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008