Is Curcumin Safe?
Curcumin is the additive E100 — the natural yellow pigment in turmeric, used to colour foods golden yellow.
Is Curcumin safe to eat?
E100 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 E100.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Curcumin?
E100 is the E-number for curcumin, one of the food colourings group of food additives (E100–E199). Additives in this group add or restore colour to foods and drinks. Extracted from turmeric root. Curcumin has been used as both a spice and a dye for thousands of years and is one of the most widely studied natural food colourings. Like every E-number, E100 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 E100 in detail below.
What foods contain Curcumin?
E100 (Curcumin) is typically found in:
- Curries and curry sauces
- Mustard
- Cheese
- Butter and margarine
- Cakes and biscuits
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Curcumin bad for you?
Yes. E100 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Curcumin vegan?
E100 is vegan. Extracted from turmeric root, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Curcumin halal?
E100 is halal. Extracted from turmeric root, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E100 (Curcumin) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).