Caramel Colour (Class IV)
Medium ConcernAlso known as
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.
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 / IARCCommonly found in
Sweets, soft drinks, cereals, ice cream, sauces, confectionery
Other artificial colours to know about
Red 3 (Erythrosine)
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Red 40 (Allura Red)
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Yellow 5 (Tartrazine)
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Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow)
MEDIUMData sourced from IARC, FDA, EFSA, WHO and EWG public data. For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical or legal advice.