Food-Info.net> E-numbers > E100-200

E150 Caramel

E150a Alkaline caramel, Class I caramel
E150b Alkali-sulphite caramel, Class II caramel
E150c Ammonia caramel, Class III caramel
E150d Sulphite-ammonia caramel, Class IV caramel

Origin:
Complex brown colour mixtures, made by dry heating and burning of sugars in the presence of alkali, ammonia, sulphite or combinations thereof. For more information, see the background file on caramelization.

Function & characteristics:
Brown to black colours. Soluble in water and with a specific, sometimes bitter, taste.

Products:
Many products.

Daily intake:
Up to 200 mg/kg body weight for E150c and E150d, whereas there is no ADI for E150a and/or E150b.

Side effects:
Side effects are manifested from the use of E150c and E150d, where intestinal problems may occur after ingestion of large amounts. Due to the complex nature of the mixtures, toxicology tests are still being carried out.

Dietary restrictions:
None; E150 can be consumed by all religious groups, vegans and vegetarians.