What is E150a?
E150a is Plain Caramel — plain caramel colouring made by heating sugar — the most widely used food colouring in the world.
What is E150a (Plain Caramel)?
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.
Where is E150a found?
E150a 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 (E150a) or by its full name, plain caramel. Common foods that may contain E150a include:
- Cola drinks
- Gravy browning
- Beer and stout
- Sauces
- Bakery products
Full guide: foods containing E150a and how to spot it on labels →
E150a is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Caramel safe? · Is Caramel Colour safe?
Is E150a safe?
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
Is E150a vegan?
E150a is vegan. Made by heating sugars, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E150a →Is E150a halal?
E150a is halal. Made by heating sugars, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E150a →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E150a in food?
E150a is Plain Caramel — plain caramel colouring made by heating sugar — the most widely used food colouring in the world.
Is E150a safe to eat?
Yes. E150a is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E150a vegan?
E150a is vegan. Made by heating sugars, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E150a halal?
E150a is halal. Made by heating sugars, 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).