E150D · Sulphite ammonia caramel
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe in moderation
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E150D?
Sulphite ammonia caramel (Caramel Colour Class IV) is made by heating sugar with both ammonium compounds and sulphite compounds. It produces an intense dark brown color and is the type most commonly used in colas and other dark soft drinks, as well as some sauces and baked goods. It is approved for food use in the EU and US within regulated limits and is considered safe for the general population.
Also appears on labels as: Sulphite ammonia caramel, Ammonia-sulphite caramel, Caramel color type IV, Caramel colour IV, Caramel IV, E150d, E 150d, E-150d, INS 150d, Sulphite ammonia caramel color, Synthetic caramel color, Food grade caramel color.
What the evidence says
- Manufacturing can generate trace 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI); EFSA and FDA permitted limits keep dietary exposure well below levels of concern, though this compound has drawn regulatory scrutiny (e.g. California Prop 65 labeling triggers at high levels).
- Contains sulphites, which can trigger reactions in sulphite-sensitive individuals.
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-use levels.
Research behind the verdict
- Caramel color in soft drinks and exposure to 4-Methylimidazole — T. J. S. Smith; Y. Xue; T. E. Hoffmann; K. P. Rhoads, PLOS ONE (2015). Measured 4-MEI in popular soft drinks from California and New York; estimated population exposures and lifetime excess cancer risks relative to California’s Prop 65 NSRL (29 µg/day). Highlighted variability across brands and batches.[caution]
Frequently asked questions
Is E150D safe?
Our overall verdict for E150D (Sulphite ammonia caramel) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe in moderation; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E150D vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sulphite ammonia 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 E150D and why is it used?
Sulphite ammonia caramel (Caramel Colour Class IV) is made by heating sugar with both ammonium compounds and sulphite compounds. It produces an intense dark brown color and is the type most commonly used in colas and other dark soft drinks, as well as some sauces and baked goods. It is approved for food use in the EU and US within regulated limits and is considered safe for the general population.
Does E150D contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sulphite ammonia 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.