| Essence |
Brown HT or E155 is an artificial color (coal tar bis-azo dye) that is often used as the cheaper option for cocoa-like or caramel-like coloring. |
| Names |
Food Brown 3, CI 20285, CAS 4553-89-3, CI Food Brown 3, Chocolate Brown HT, E155, Brown HT, INS No. 155, and others. |
| Sourcing |
It is sourced from coal tar. |
| Manufacturing |
Unknown. |
| Application |
Coloring (brown, very water-soluble). |
| Acceptable Daily Intake |
It is said to be fine in amounts up to 1.5 milligrams on every kilogram of body weight daily. But that number is extremely void of reality. We shouldn’t be consuming any of it. In fact, it has been banned in countries like France, Germany, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, the USA, Australia, Belgium, Denmark, and Austria. |
| Side Effects |
As an artificial color, it can create all kinds of serious problems. It can lead to cancer, brain damage (neurotoxin), hyperactivity, skin irritation, asthma, severe allergies, infertility, OCD, irritability, and more. |
| Benefits |
None. |
| Studies |
20+ studies on Pubmed. Less than 5 studies on safety. |
| Allergens |
None. |
| Diet Restrictions |
It might not be Halal compatible. Otherwise, none. |
| Health Knight Assessment |
Seriously Harmful. | Category 5 Additive. |
| Products |
It is used in processed foods like chocolates, pastries, teas, biscuits, soft drinks, sweets, crisps, protein drinks, sausages, BBQs, chocolate bars, hot dogs, chocolate drinks, wafers, dried fruits, cookies, cakes, candy, desserts, breakfast cereal, spring rolls, food decorations, ice creams, lollies, bacon, jams, yogurts, and others. |
