E 140 Chlorophylls and chlorophyllins

What is E 140?

E 140 is the E number of Chlorophylls and chlorophyllins. Green plant pigment extracted from plants such as grass, nettles or alfalfa. It is used in sweets, ice cream and liqueurs.

What is E 140 used for?

E 140 belongs to the group "Colours" and is used as colour.

• Colour: Colours add or restore colour in a food.

Which foods may contain E 140?

According to the European Commission's database, E 140 may be used in 51 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Dairy products and analogues
• Edible ices
• Fruit and vegetables
• Confectionery
• Cereals and cereal products
• Bakery wares
• Meat
• Fish and fisheries products
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
• Beverages
• Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
• Desserts
• Food supplements
• Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 140 vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 140 linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 140 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Colour: E 140" or "Colour: Chlorophylls and chlorophyllins".