FMC BioPolymer is one of the world’s largest suppliers of chlorophyll .
This green colour is mainly extracted from grass and lucerne (alfalfa) that is grown especially for chlorophyll production in Lincolnshire in the United Kingdom.
Chlorophyll is naturally oil-soluble and provides a green colour. Alkaline hydrolysis of chlorophyll produces water-soluble chlorophyllin.
Copper chlorophyll (E140) and copper chlorophyllin (E141) provide a much brighter green colour than the uncoppered product. These complexes are produced by the coppering of chlorophyll and chlorophyllin respectively – to yield more stable complexes with greater tinctorial strength.
Chlorophylls and chlorophyllins and copper complexes of chlorophylls and chlorophyllins can be used in a wide range of applications including drinks, ice cream, ice lollies, sugar confectionary, sauces, pickles and Sage Derby cheese.
Curcumin can be used with these colours to provide a lime green shade.