Safe

E141Copper chlorophyllin

Color

E141 (Copper chlorophyllin), a color, is rated "safe": no significant concern. Chlorophyll with copper added to make the green more stable in processed foods. The copper stays bound in the molecule rather than absorbed as free copper.

What is Copper chlorophyllin?

Chlorophyll with copper substituted into the molecule so the green color survives heat and acid. Used in soups, sauces, dairy desserts, and chewing gum.

What does it do to the body?

The copper is held tightly inside the molecule, so it does not raise your copper intake meaningfully. No safety issues identified at normal use levels.

What regulators say

EFSA set an acceptable daily intake of 15 mg per kg of body weight per day in 2015 after a full re-evaluation. The FDA approves it as a safe color additive.

Risk rating: Safe

Cleared by EFSA with no significant concern at typical dietary exposure. Common, well-studied, and not a reason to put a product back on the shelf.

Source: EFSA — re-evaluation of copper complexes of chlorophyllins (2015)
E-number: E141Category: ColorAlso known as: copper chlorophyllin, copper complexes of chlorophyll

Frequently asked questions

Is E141 (Copper chlorophyllin) safe?
EFSA set an acceptable daily intake of 15 mg per kg of body weight per day in 2015 after a full re-evaluation. The FDA approves it as a safe color additive.
What is E141 (Copper chlorophyllin)?
Chlorophyll with copper substituted into the molecule so the green color survives heat and acid. Used in soups, sauces, dairy desserts, and chewing gum.
What does Copper chlorophyllin do to the body?
The copper is held tightly inside the molecule, so it does not raise your copper intake meaningfully. No safety issues identified at normal use levels.
What are other names for E141?
E141 is also known as copper chlorophyllin, copper complexes of chlorophyll.

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