Instant Coffee
Also known as: soluble coffee
Instant coffee is a processed but minimally additive food; the principal active is caffeine. FDA cites moderate caffeine intake (up to 400 mg/day for healthy adults) as not associated with negative effects, with cautions for pregnant individuals and children.
What it is
Soluble coffee produced by brewing then dehydrating coffee extract (spray- or freeze-dried).
Coffee beverage base; flavoring in baked goods and confections.
Why it's flagged
- caffeine sensitivity
- pregnancy intake limits
What regulators actually say
"For healthy adults, the FDA has cited 400 milligrams a day—that's about four or five cups of coffee—as an amount not generally associated with dangerous, negative effects."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted; caffeine GRAS (21 CFR 182.1180)
European Union — EFSA
Permitted; EFSA caffeine safety opinion sets reference intakes
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