Copper complexes of chlorophylls: application, preparation and effect on the human body

Copper complexes of chlorophylls are food dyes that are absolutely harmless to the human body. The dye was called - food additive E141. She came from her predecessor - E140.

Let's talk about the origin of the natural food supplement E141, its use and effect on the human body.

Properties E141 and its description

Copper complexes of chlorophylls are a natural dye of natural origin. He paints products in the color of greens.

This additive can be divided into:

  • E141 (i) - copper complex of chlorophyll;
  • E141 (ii) - potassium and sodium salts of the complex.

In its natural form E141 (i) it resembles wax. The primary color is green, but can change hue from blue to brown.

E141 (ii) - the copper complex of chlorophyllins looks like a powder. It has a rich green color: herbal or olive.

e141 in the form of powder

E141 has the following properties:

  • odorless;
  • soluble in water (E141 (ii)) and fats (E141 (i));
  • E141 (ii) is alkaline resistant;
  • sensitive to acids;
  • resistant to light and heat.

What products are copper complexes of chlorophylls derived from?

E141 is extracted from edible products of natural origin:

  • broccoli;
  • nettles;
  • cucumbers
  • edible algae;
  • alfalfa.
green vegetables

From these plants, an extract is obtained using special solvents necessary to create E141. Further, copper is added to the extract if E141 (i) is made. If E141 (ii) is made, then copper, potassium and magnesium are added. And so it turns out copper complexes of chlorophylls and chlorophyllins.

The effect of additives on the human body

Everyone who cares about their health needs to know the daily intake of food grade E141 - it's 12-15 mg per kilogram of body weight.

When it comes to the copper complex of chlorophylls and chlorophyllins, you should think about the benefits that this dye brings. E141 is considered completely harmless to the human body and is permitted by the legislation of the Russian Federation. It is worth remembering that E141 is of natural origin, therefore it is worth talking about the benefits of the copper complex of chlorophylls.

The positive effect on the human body is lower.

  1. Many argue that copper complexes of chlorophylls are great as dietary supplements (dietary supplements). This substance helps to increase the level of hemoglobin in the blood.
  2. Copper chlorophyll complexes eliminate body odor in cancer.
  3. E141 (ii) is highly soluble in water, which means it is able to bind mutagens in the human body, and this can help reduce the risk of cancer.
  4. Green color favorably affects the nervous system.

Negative effect on the human body - what? Every day a person eats E141, because it is found in many foods of plant origin. But still, you should not use it in large quantities due to the presence of copper in the additive (bound and free).

Where to use the natural food supplement E141

This food coloring is widely used in the food industry. E141 gives a green tint:

  • canned fruit and vegetables;
  • soups;
  • drinks
  • Confectionery
  • some types of cheese;
  • ice cream;
  • yogurts and other milk desserts;
  • to the liquor;
  • chewing gum.
green ice cream

E141 (i) and E141 (ii) can be added to products at the same time.

In addition to the food industry, copper complexes of chlorophyll can be found in cosmetics. They are used in various ointments and creams.

Where is the E141 manufactured?

Copper complexes of chlorophylls are produced in Denmark, India, Germany and Russia.

This food coloring is allowed in almost all countries of the world for use as a food additive. Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and other CIS countries are no exception. Despite the fact that dyes are used in the food industry, it is not worth abusing products with their use, even if the bright green color beckons.


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