Specimen No. 0184
AvoidSyntheticfood artificial dyes
Blue 2
Indigo Carmine · E132
Master DB rating: Avoid. Listed for: Candy, cereal, pet food
medium confidence
Researched July 7, 2026Specimen 0184Blue 2
Concerns
- FDA's own pivotal chronic-feeding study found a statistically significant increase in brain gliomas among high-dose male rats, though FDA and the study authors concluded this was not biologically significant; a parallel mouse feeding study found no evidence of carcinogenicity (Borzelleca & Hogan 1985)
- No human carcinogenicity data exist; the dye has not been independently retested with modern methods since the 1985 studies
Regulatory flags
- ⚑IARC Class: NL
- ⚑EDC Status: None
- ⚑Regulatory: US: GRAS/certified (21 CFR 74.102); EU: permitted with limits
- ⚑Evidence Grade: B
Commonly found in
Candy, cereal, pet food
Sources & references
Last researched: July 7, 2026
Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.
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