E142: Green S
Main role: green coloring
Also listed as: Food Green 4, C.I. 44090
What is E142 (Green S)?
Green S is a synthetic green dye used to adjust the appearance of some foods. Its chemical identity differs from plant chlorophyll colors, even though both can create a green shade. The E number identifies the dye rather than its concentration in a finished product.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is green coloring. Coloring changes appearance. It does not establish the amount of fruit, vegetables, vitamins, or minerals in a serving. Different pigment preparations can have different processing properties and permitted uses.
Food and formulation examples
- Confectionery
- Desserts
- Beverage formulations where permitted
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E142, E 142, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include Food Green 4, C.I. 44090. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Do not confuse Green S with Fast Green FCF, a different dye. Color names alone can be ambiguous across countries, which makes the E number useful when comparing labels.
Is E142 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E142 as Green S. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.