E150B · Alkaline sulphite caramel
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E150B?
Alkaline sulphite caramel (Caramel Colour Class II) is made by heating sugar with sulphite compounds in the presence of alkali, but without any ammonium compounds. It produces a dark reddish-brown colorant used in whiskies, spirits, and some sauces. It is approved as a food colorant in the EU and US within set limits and is considered safe for general consumption.
Also appears on labels as: Alkaline sulphite caramel, Caustic sulphite caramel, Caramel color type II, Caramel colour II, Caramel II, E150b, E 150b, E-150b, INS 150b, Alkaline sulfite caramel, Sulphite caramel (alkaline), Karamelis E150b.
What the evidence says
- Contains sulphites, which can trigger reactions (e.g. wheezing, skin irritation) in sulphite-sensitive individuals, including some people with asthma.
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-use levels by EFSA and FDA.
Research behind the verdict
- Caramel Colour II (Caustic Sulphite) (E150b) – Recent Findings — EFSA Panel on Food Additives, EFSA Journal (2022). Contains sulfite compounds; no genotoxicity; sulfite-sensitive individuals may react.[safe_in_moderation]
Frequently asked questions
Is E150B safe?
Our overall verdict for E150B (Alkaline sulphite caramel) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E150B vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Alkaline sulphite caramel — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E150B and why is it used?
Alkaline sulphite caramel (Caramel Colour Class II) is made by heating sugar with sulphite compounds in the presence of alkali, but without any ammonium compounds. It produces a dark reddish-brown colorant used in whiskies, spirits, and some sauces. It is approved as a food colorant in the EU and US within set limits and is considered safe for general consumption.
Does E150B contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Alkaline sulphite caramel, though some people report sensitivity (sulphites).
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.