Caramel Colour (Class IV)

Medium Concern
Artificial Colour

Also known as

caramel colourcaramel colore150de150caramel colouringcaramel coloring

The concern

Class IV caramel colour is produced using ammonia and sulfites, generating 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI), a California Prop 65 listed possible carcinogen. Found in many colas and dark soft drinks.

Read the source: California OEHHA / IARC

What to look for on labels

This ingredient may appear under any of the following names or codes on product labels:

  • Caramel Colour (Class IV)
  • caramel colour
  • caramel color
  • e150d
  • e150
  • caramel colouring
  • caramel coloring

Learn more

Read the full evidence directly from the authoritative source.

View source — California OEHHA / IARC

Data sourced from IARC, FDA, EFSA, WHO and EWG public data. For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical or legal advice.