Synthetic dyes are widely used as colouring reagents in the various industries, such as food, textile, and petroleum and they are responsible for the bright colours of candy, sports drinks and baked goods.
One such class of dyes, Sudan dyes, that contain azo functional groups and aromatic rings, can have adverse effects on human health and environment.
Sudan Blue II (see Figure 1) is used as a dye for staining alcohols, ester, hydrocarbon derivatives, oils, fats, and waxes.
Carcinogenic effect of Sudan dyes has been recognized by researchers. Sudan Blue II is harmful to human and animals; it causes irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.
In November 2021 the European Commission published a RASFF notification (Reference number 2021.6457:
https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/rasff-window/screen/notification/517761) regarding the presence of Sudan Blue II in ice cream.
Sudan dyes are not permitted for colouring foodstuffs. Regulation CE 1333/2008 contains a positive list listing all substances authorised for food: Sudan dyes are not mentioned in this list and are therefore strictly prohibited.
Neotron proposal
Neotron performs the analysis of Sudan Blue II by LC-MS/MS technique, permitting to detect the residues with a limit of quantification of 0,010 mg/kg.
To learn more, or to request and analysis for your business, please contact us.
