Caramel Color (E150a) — What You Need to Know
What Is Caramel Color?
Caramel color is one of the most widely used food colorings in the world, produced by heat treatment of sugars. There are four types (E150a–E150d), each made with different processing chemicals. E150a (Plain Caramel) is the simplest form with no added chemicals. E150d (Sulfite-Ammonia Caramel) — used in colas — has been flagged due to a byproduct called 4-MEI.
What Is It Used For?
Provides brown to black coloring to foods and beverages. The primary coloring in cola drinks, beer, soy sauce, gravy, and many other processed foods.
Safety Assessment
E150d (sulfite-ammonia caramel) produces a byproduct called 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI) during manufacturing. The IARC has classified 4-MEI as 'possibly carcinogenic to humans' (Group 2B), though this classification is based on animal studies and the human relevance is debated. The FDA considers caramel color safe at current levels of consumption.
Based on current evidence, Caramel Color is rated Caution with a score of 6/10. This is 0.2 points above the average for colorings (5.8/10). Last reviewed by regulators: 2011.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E150a or 'Caramel Color'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Caramel Color
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E150a
- INS Number
- 150a
- Category
- Colorings
- Origin
- Natural
- FDA Status
- GRAS
- EFSA Status
- Authorized
- ADI
- No limit
- Last Review
- 2011
Related Additives
Other colorings in the same family