Water And Modified Cornstarch Product Caramel Color Added

This ingredient is a form of caramel color, which is a dark brown food coloring. It is made by heating carbohydrates, such as cornstarch, under controlled conditions. The process can involve acids, alkalis, or sulfites, depending on the type of caramel color.

Caramel color is used to give foods a brown hue, mimicking the color of cooked or roasted ingredients. It is frequently found in baked goods, beverages, sauces, and frozen dinners.

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 a byproduct called 4-MEI, which has raised concerns. However, regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA have reviewed caramel color and its byproducts, determining that typical consumption levels are safe. JECFA has also evaluated caramel colors and established acceptable daily intakes.