E141ii
E141(ii) is a food additive approved by the European Union (EU). It is used as a synthetic colouring agents in food and drink products.
E141(ii) includes copper complexes of chlorophyllins.
It is helpful to compare E141(ii) with the other similar food additives E141(i) and E140(i) and E140(ii). These colouring agents provide a very similar shade of olive green. However, E141(i) and E141(ii) are more stable forms than E140(i) and E140(ii) because the magnesium ion in chlorophyll in E140(i) and E140(ii) is replaced by copper in E141(i) and E141(ii).
E141(i) is soluble in water, whereas E141(ii) is not soluble in water but is soluble in oil. The copper content of the colourings may be released when heated, but should not reach dangerous levels.
We did not find reference to any adverse effects due to use of E141(ii).
Examples of food and drink products that sometimes include E141(i) and E141(ii):
- sweets
- soups
- ice creams
- preserved green fruits and vegetables