E101 — riboflavin or vitamin B2

E101, commonly known as riboflavin or vitamin B2, is generally considered safe for human consumption. It is an essential vitamin required for maintaining good health, with no significant risks reported at normal dietary levels. However, rare allergic reactions have been documented in sensitive individuals.

Chemical Composition and Properties

• Riboflavin has the chemical formula C₁₇H₂₀N₄O₆.
• Appears as yellow or orange-yellow crystalline needles with a slightly bitter taste.
• Poorly soluble in water and alcohol; stable in acidic conditions but degrades in alkaline environments.

Natural Occurrence

• Naturally found in milk, eggs, liver, and green vegetables.
• Commercially produced through fermentation using bacteria or fungi.

Applications in Food Industry

• Used for its yellow coloring properties in beverages, dairy items, baked goods, and confectioneries.
• Also employed to fortify foods with vitamin B2 to prevent nutritional deficiencies.

Health and Safety Considerations

• Benefits:
  • Essential for energy metabolism and healthy skin and eyes.
  • Safe within the acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 0–0.5 mg/kg body weight per day, as established by JECFA.
  • Evaluated as safe by EFSA.
• Risks:
  • Rare allergic reactions reported. For example, a severe allergic response was observed in a 15-year-old boy after consuming riboflavin-fortified products.

Regulatory Status

• Approved in the European Union under the E number E101.
• Listed by the FDA as a color additive exempt from certification.

Conclusion

E101 (riboflavin) is extensively used in the food industry for its nutritional benefits and coloring properties. It is widely regarded as safe for consumption, with minimal associated risks. However, individuals with known allergies should remain cautious.