Brilliant Black BN

Brilliant Black BN, Brilliant Black PN, Brilliant Black A, Black PN, Food Black 1, Naphthol Black, C.I. Food Brown 1, or C.I. 28440, is a synthetic black diazo dye. It is soluble in water. It usually comes as tetrasodium salt. It has the appearance of solid, fine powder or granules. Calcium and potassium salts are allowed as well.

When used as a food dye, its E number is E151. It is used in food decorations and coatings, desserts, sweets, ice cream, mustard, red fruit jams, soft drinks, flavored milk drinks, fish paste, and other foods.

It appears to cause allergic or intolerance reactions, particularly amongst those with an aspirin intolerance. It is a histamine liberator, and may worsen the symptoms of asthma.

It is one of the colourants that the Hyperactive Children's Support Group recommends be eliminated from the diet of children. It is banned in Canada, United States, Finland, Japan, and Norway.


 * Brilliant Black PN concentration limits

Brillantschwarz BN Nero Brillante BN Briljantzwart BN