Is Caramel Colour Safe?
Caramel Colour is the additive E150a — plain caramel colouring made by heating sugar — the most widely used food colouring in the world.
Is Caramel Colour safe to eat?
E150a is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E150a.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Caramel Colour?
E150a is the E-number for plain caramel, one of the food colourings group of food additives (E100–E199). Additives in this group add or restore colour to foods and drinks. Made by heating sugars. Caramel colours (E150a-d) are by weight the most used food colourings in the world, with cola drinks the biggest single use. Like every E-number, E150a has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E150a in detail below.
What foods contain Caramel Colour?
E150a (Caramel Colour) is typically found in:
- Cola drinks
- Gravy browning
- Beer and stout
- Sauces
- Bakery products
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Caramel Colour bad for you?
Yes. E150a is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Caramel Colour vegan?
E150a is vegan. Made by heating sugars, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Caramel Colour halal?
E150a is halal. Made by heating sugars, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E150a (Plain Caramel) →
This section contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Concerned about food additives?
Food Intolerance Test
Find out exactly which ingredients affect you with a home food intolerance test.
Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).