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Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Caramel color is used to give foods a brown hue, mimicking the color of …
What it is
Caramel color is a food coloring made by heating sugars, often with acids, alkalis, or sulfites. Depending on the process used, it can range in color from light yellow to dark brown. There are four classes of caramel color, based on the reactants used during manufacturing.
Why it's used
Caramel color is used to give foods a brown hue, mimicking the color of cooked or roasted ingredients. It is commonly found in baked goods, soft drinks, sauces, gravies, and confectionery.
Health notes
Caramel color is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Some studies have raised concerns about compounds like 4-MEI, which can be present in certain types of caramel color. However, regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA have reviewed the available evidence and determined that current levels of exposure are not a health concern. JECFA has also evaluated caramel colors.
Allergen info
Caramel color is not derived from any of the nine major allergens. It does not contain gluten.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.