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Caramel
Caramel
Also known as: E150
Moderate concern
Caramel colour is regulated under 21 CFR 73.85 as a color additive exempt from certification. EFSA's 2011 reevaluation set a group ADI of 300 mg/kg bw/day.
Found in
54,022 products
E-number
E150
What it is
Caramel: a dark colorant made by controlled heat treatment of food-grade carbohydrates; four classes (E150a-d) differ by manufacturing reactants.
Food coloring providing brown to dark-brown color.
Why it's flagged
- E150c/E150d can contain 4-MEI (Prop 65 listed)
- by-products like furan and 5-HMF noted by EFSA
What regulators actually say
"Caramel may be safely used for coloring foods generally, in amounts consistent with good manufacturing practice."
"The Panel establishes a group ADI of 300 mg/kg bw/day for the caramel colours."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Approved color additive (21 CFR 73.85).
European Union — EFSA
Authorized E 150a-d; group ADI 300 mg/kg bw/day (EFSA, 2011).
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