Class Iv Caramel Color

Class IV caramel color is a dark brown liquid or powder. It is made by heating carbohydrates, such as corn syrup or molasses, with ammonia and sulfites under high pressure. This process creates a range of brown colors used in foods.

Manufacturers use Class IV caramel color to give foods a brown hue, mimicking colors found naturally in products like baked goods or beverages. It is commonly found in soft drinks, baked goods, sauces, and powdered drink mixes.

Class IV caramel color is permitted for use in the U.S. by the FDA. The FDA has established standards for its production and use. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated caramel colors. Some studies have raised questions about certain compounds that can form during the caramelization process, but these are generally found at very low levels in finished products.