Caramel Color And Nonfat Milk

Caramel color is a common food coloring made by heating sugars, often with acids, bases, or salts. Nonfat milk is skim milk, with most of the fat and water removed. When combined, they form a dark brown coloring agent.

Caramel color provides a rich brown hue to foods and beverages. Nonfat milk adds body and a creamy flavor. They are often found together in baked goods like cakes and cupcakes, as well as in some dairy products and sauces.

Caramel color is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Some caramel colors can contain small amounts of 4-MEI, a chemical that has raised concerns in animal studies at very high doses. However, regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated caramel colors and have not set specific numeric limits for 4-MEI in typical food use. The FDA monitors the safety of food ingredients.