HPLC Method for Analysis of Brilliant Blue and Allura Red in Children’s Mucinex Night Time Multi-Symptom Cold

Brilliant Blue FCF, commonly known as Blue 1, is a synthetic triarylmethane dye. In its dry form, it appears as a light-blue powder, which transforms into a deep blue solution when dissolved in water.

Allura Red AC, also known as FD&C Red No. 40, is a widely used red azo dye in the United States. It finds application in a range of products—from tattoos and children’s medications to beverages and processed foods. When used in food, it is labeled with the E number E129. Sold as a dark red sodium salt, Allura Red yields an orange-red hue in aqueous solution.

Zodiac HST N, a highly polar HPLC column with embedded acidic and basic ionizable functionalities, effectively retains and separates both Allura Red and Brilliant Blue. The method is fully compatible with LC/MS and UV detection and offers a robust solution for the analysis of structurally related polar dyes.