Is Vegetable Carbon Safe?
Vegetable Carbon is the additive E153 — made from carbonised plant material such as coconut shells or wood, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
Is Vegetable Carbon safe to eat?
E153 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 E153.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Vegetable Carbon?
E153 is the E-number for vegetable carbon, one of the food colourings group of food additives (E100–E199). Additives in this group add or restore colour to foods and drinks. Made from carbonised plant material such as coconut shells or wood. Like every E-number, E153 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 E153 in detail below.
What foods contain Vegetable Carbon?
E153 (Vegetable Carbon) is typically found in:
- Sweets
- Soft drinks
- Desserts
- Ice cream
- Sauces and snacks
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vegetable Carbon bad for you?
Yes. E153 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Vegetable Carbon vegan?
E153 is vegan. Made from carbonised plant material such as coconut shells or wood, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Vegetable Carbon halal?
E153 is halal. Made from carbonised plant material such as coconut shells or wood, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E153 (Vegetable Carbon) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).