| Additive Summary | Copper Complexes Of Chlorophyll (E141) |
|---|---|
| Essence | Copper complexes of chlorophylls can come in one of two different forms. It’s either the Cu-chlorophylls or E 141(i) or it’s the Cu-chlorophyllins or E141(ii). Both essentially are the synthetic forms of Chlorophylls (E140) where the natural Magnesium contents get replaced with Copper content which makes the color brighter and more stable (there are some other changes as well though). |
| Names | Copper pheophytin, CI 75810, Chlorophyll Cu complex, Chlorophyllin copper sodium salt, CAS 15611-43-5, Copper Complexes Of Chlorophyll, E141, and others. |
| Sourcing | It’s partly synthetically made. The natural side things will be a matter of grass, nettles, lucerne, spinach, or alfalfa. Whereas the artificial part of things comes from the salt of Copper. |
| Manufacturing | Unknown. |
| Application | Coloring (light green to green). It can be water-soluble (E140(i)) or fat-soluble (E140(ii)). |
| Acceptable Daily Intake | Safe daily uptake used to be set at 15 milligrams a day on every kilogram of body weight. However, since then it has been withdrawn. |
| Side Effects | The Copper complexes of chlorophylls do not possess the inherent dangers of artificial colors. However, it seems that toxicity can arise when the Copper in the additive starts to become too much. |
| Benefits | Some minor benefits similar to the ones possible with Chlorophylls are possible. But I wouldn’t bet on them. |
| Studies | 190+ studies on Pubmed. Less than 5 studies on safety. |
| Allergens | None. |
| Diet Restrictions | None. |
| Assessment (As An Additive) |
Potentially Harmless. | Category 2 Additive. |
| Products | It is commonly used in processed foods like pastries, sauces, soft drinks, desserts, ice cream, sweets, dried fruit products, soups, snacks, food decorations, candy, seasonings, and others. |
These are an ingredient of tinned peas I have bought and recently I have been affected by something that left me with diarrhea for more than 24 hours. This is not a first time and it has happened on 3 occasions – I have just narrowed it down to peas as they are the only common factor. The reaction is very similar to when I have been “gluttoned”.