Curcumin
Natural turmeric color.
- Category
- Colours
- Acceptable daily intake
- 3 mg/kg body weight/day (EFSA)
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Curcumin (E100) is a natural yellow-orange coloring agent. It is the active ingredient in turmeric spice.
How it is used in food
Natural alternative to synthetic yellow dyes.
Commonly found in- Mustard and piccalilli
- Margarines and butter
- Yoghurts and ice creams
- Curry powders
Health and safety
None known at food doses; poorly absorbed by the body.
Excreted largely unchanged by the body.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Permitted | Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Approved (exempt from certification). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E100
- Colour index
- 75300
Also printed asTurmeric extract · Turmeric oleoresin · Turmeric yellow
Alternatives to this additive
- E160a: Carotenes — Another natural pigment that provides orange-yellow hues.
How it is made
Extracted directly from the rhizomes (roots) of the Curcuma longa plant using solvents, which are then evaporated off to leave a pure pigment.
- Extraction — Turmeric roots are ground and the pigment is extracted using solvents (like acetone or ethanol), which are then removed.
Worth knowing
The yellow pigment of turmeric root, used for millennia in cooking.
Conclusion
E100 is the gold standard for natural yellow coloring. It has largely replaced controversial synthetic azo dyes (like Tartrazine E102) in many products aimed at health-conscious consumers.
References
- EFSA evaluation of E100 — EFSA
- EFSA re-evaluation of curcumin — EFSA
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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