Caramel Color Soybean Oil

Caramel color is a food coloring made by heating sugars. It can range in color from light yellow to dark brown. It is often made using ammonia or sulfites under heat and pressure, which can create different types of caramel color.

Manufacturers use caramel color to give foods a brown hue, making them look more appealing. It is commonly found in baked goods, beverages, sauces, and processed meats. It does not add flavor.

Caramel color is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Some types of caramel color contain compounds like 4-MEI, which have raised concerns. However, regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated caramel colors and have not set specific limits, indicating they are considered safe at typical consumption levels. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from consuming caramel color in amounts typically found in food.