Caustic Sulphite Caramel (E150b) — What You Need to Know
The score is an eNumbers.org editorial summary, not an official agency rating or medical advice. Start with the regulatory status and primary sources below.
What Is Caustic Sulphite Caramel?
Caustic Sulphite Caramel is produced by the controlled heat treatment of carbohydrates (such as glucose, sucrose, or starch hydrolysates) in the presence of sulphite compounds. It is the least commonly used of the four caramel color classes (E150a–E150d).
What Is It Used For?
Provides brown coloring primarily in spirits such as brandy and cognac, as well as in vinegar and sherry. Less widely used than other caramel colors.
Regulatory & Editorial Context
Produced using sulphite compounds. Less common than E150a or E150d. Part of the caramel color group with a combined ADI of 300 mg/kg bw/day. Contains sulphites which can trigger reactions in sulphite-sensitive individuals (especially asthmatics). Less studied individually than the more widely used E150d.
eNumbers.org currently assigns Caustic Sulphite Caramel an editorial context label of Caution with a score of 5/10. This is 0.8 points below the database average for colorings (5.8/10). Dataset reference year: 2011.
This score is not issued by EFSA, FDA, WHO or another regulator.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E150b or 'Caustic Sulphite Caramel'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Caustic Sulphite Caramel
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E150b
- INS Number
- 150b
- Category
- Colorings
- Origin
- Synthetic
- FDA Status
- Approved (caramel color category)
- EFSA Status
- Approved in EU — grouped ADI of 300 mg/kg bw/day for E150a–E150d
- ADI
- 300 mg/kg bw/day
- Dataset Review
- 2011
Carriers, processing aids and product certification can change suitability. Verify the final label and certifier.
Related Additives
Other colorings in the same family