What is E100?
E100 is Curcumin — the natural yellow pigment in turmeric, used to colour foods golden yellow.
What is E100 (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.
Where is E100 found?
E100 is typically used in sweets, soft drinks, desserts, ice cream, sauces and snacks. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E100) or by its full name, curcumin. Common foods that may contain E100 include:
- Curries and curry sauces
- Mustard
- Cheese
- Butter and margarine
- Cakes and biscuits
Full guide: foods containing E100 and how to spot it on labels →
E100 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Curcumin safe?
Is E100 safe?
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
Is E100 vegan?
E100 is vegan. Extracted from turmeric root, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E100 →Is E100 halal?
E100 is halal. Extracted from turmeric root, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E100 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E100 in food?
E100 is Curcumin — the natural yellow pigment in turmeric, used to colour foods golden yellow.
Is E100 safe to eat?
Yes. E100 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E100 vegan?
E100 is vegan. Extracted from turmeric root, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E100 halal?
E100 is halal. Extracted from turmeric root, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).