E154 – Brown FK

E154, known as Brown FK or Kipper Brown, is a synthetic brown azo dye formerly used as a food coloring agent. It was primarily utilized to enhance the appearance of certain fish products, notably kippers (smoked herring), by providing a stable brown hue that remained even after cooking.

Purpose in Products

E154 was employed to impart a brown color to specific food items, enhancing their visual appeal. Its primary application included:

  • Fish Products: Notably in kippers, to maintain a «healthy-looking» color post-cooking.

Health Risks

E154 has been associated with several health concerns:

  • Allergic Reactions: As an azo dye, it may elicit intolerance in individuals sensitive to salicylates, potentially causing skin rashes or itching. 
  • Asthma: It is a histamine liberator and may intensify symptoms of asthma.
  • Hyperactivity in Children: In combination with benzoates, it has been implicated in hyperactivity in children.

Impact on Children

Due to its potential to induce hyperactivity, especially when combined with certain preservatives like benzoates, E154 posed specific risks for children. This concern contributed to its regulatory scrutiny and eventual prohibition in many regions.

Impact on Taste

As a colorant, E154 had a neutral flavor profile and did not significantly alter the taste of the products to which it was added.

Compatibility with Other Additives

E154 could be combined with other additives; however, its use was limited to specific applications, primarily in fish products. Given its health concerns, combining it with other additives did not mitigate its associated risks.

Natural Occurrence

E154 is not naturally occurring; it is synthesized from petroleum derivatives and classified as an azo dye. 

Alternatives and Substitutes

Natural alternatives to E154 include:

  • Caramel Color (E150): Provides a brown hue and is derived from the controlled heat treatment of carbohydrates.
  • Annatto (E160b): A natural colorant extracted from the seeds of the achiote tree, offering yellow to orange hues.

Regulation

Due to health concerns, E154 is banned in numerous countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and throughout the European Union. Its use was primarily restricted to coloring kippers, but safety evaluations led to its prohibition in food products. 

Conclusion

E154 (Brown FK) was a synthetic brown dye used to color specific food products, notably kippers. Due to health concerns, including potential allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children, its use has been discontinued in food applications across many countries. Natural alternatives like caramel color and annatto are now preferred for achieving brown coloration in food products.