Natural Flavors Caramel Color

Caramel color is a food coloring made by heating sugars, often with acids, bases, or salts. It can range in color from light yellow to dark brown. The process can involve ammonia or sulfites, depending on the type.

Caramel color is used to give foods a brown hue, mimicking the color of cooked or roasted ingredients. It's commonly found in baked goods, beverages like sodas and beers, sauces, gravies, and confectionery.

Caramel color is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Some types of caramel color, specifically Class III and IV, can contain byproducts like 4-MEI, which has raised concerns. However, regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA have reviewed caramel color and found it safe for consumption at typical levels. JECFA has also evaluated caramel color.