Sulphite Ammonia Caramel (E150d) — What You Need to Know
What Is Sulphite Ammonia Caramel?
Sulphite Ammonia Caramel (Class IV) is the most widely used caramel color globally, produced by heating carbohydrates with both sulphite and ammonium compounds. It is the primary colorant in cola drinks, giving them their characteristic dark brown color. This class of caramel color contains the highest levels of 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI), a processing byproduct classified as possibly carcinogenic.
What Is It Used For?
Provides deep brown to black coloring in beverages, sauces, and baked goods. The dominant coloring agent in cola-type soft drinks worldwide.
Safety Assessment
The most widely used caramel color globally, especially in cola drinks. Contains the highest levels of 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI) among caramel colors. 4-MEI is classified by IARC as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans). California added 4-MEI to Proposition 65 in 2011, leading Coca-Cola and Pepsi to reformulate their caramel color to reduce 4-MEI levels in California. EFSA set maximum limits for 4-MEI in 2011. The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) petitioned the FDA to ban E150d in 2011. While not banned anywhere, California Proposition 65 requires warning labels for products containing significant 4-MEI levels.
Based on current evidence, Sulphite Ammonia Caramel is rated Questionable with a score of 4/10. This is 1.8 points below the average for colorings (5.8/10). Last reviewed by regulators: 2011.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E150d or 'Sulphite Ammonia Caramel'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Sulphite Ammonia Caramel
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E150d
- INS Number
- 150d
- Category
- Colorings
- Origin
- Synthetic
- FDA Status
- Approved (caramel color category)
- EFSA Status
- Authorized with grouped ADI of 300 mg/kg bw/day for all caramel colors; noted highest 4-MEI levels in Class IV
- ADI
- 300 mg/kg bw/day
- Last Review
- 2011
Related Additives
Other colorings in the same family