Colour code on the tooth Pastes What it really means

by Denticare
Updated: 04 July, 2022
Tooth | Teeth

Lot of people have been led to believe, the coloured squ-res printed on the tooth paste telling us the chemical composition of the tooth paste, LetÊ¼s see what it really means.

What is the claim ?

We can identify the chemical composition by hidden colour codes in the tooth paste

Green indicates completely natural
Blue indicates Natural and medicine
Red indicates natural and chemicals
Black indicates All chemicals

What is the fact ?

During the manufacturing process, optical sensors can locate the end of the tube by scanning the colour marks and cutting machines can make “cut and crimp “at the end of the tube. Remember Automated machines would cut hundreds of tubes in a minute .

Why Different colours used ?

Tooth paste companies outsource the Packaging process to other companies, Different manufacturing companies use different compatible colours.

Is this applicable only for tooth pastes ?

No, You can look at any tooth paste brands or any products (face creams, ointments, gels etc) that comes in a tubes or Sachets will have these marks.

So always check the source of the information, never trust any scientific facts without analysing it. Sadly, last year, one of the popular Indian news paper published an article that unknowingly supported this hoax.

Frequently Asked Questions

The colored strip on the bottom of toothpaste tubes is often mistaken for a “color code,” but it does not indicate the toothpaste’s ingredients or safety. The strip is simply a registration mark used during manufacturing to help cutting machines detect where to seal and trim the tube. Toothpaste safety and contents should always be checked on the ingredient list and packaging, not by the color of the strip.

Color coding in dentistry is used to improve identification, organization, and efficiency during procedures. Dental clinics often color-code instruments, trays, and materials to indicate their specific purpose—such as hygiene tools, surgical sets, orthodontic kits, or restorative instruments. This helps staff quickly locate items, maintain infection-control standards, and reduce errors during treatment. Unlike myths about toothpaste strips, dental color coding is an intentional organizational system, widely used for safety and workflow management.

Blue 1 (Brilliant Blue FCF) is an FDA-approved and globally recognized synthetic dye used in many oral-care products, including toothpaste and mouthwash. It is considered safe when used within regulated limits, as only very small amounts are added for color. Studies show that Blue 1 is not absorbed significantly by the body when used topically, making it safe for everyday use. People with dye sensitivities may prefer dye-free toothpaste, but for most users, Blue 1 poses no health risk.