Sulphite ammonia caramel
Cola caramel; contains 4-MEI traces, debated at high intakes.
- Category
- Colours
- Acceptable daily intake
- 300 mg/kg body weight/day (EFSA)
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Sulphite ammonia caramel (E150d / Class IV Caramel) is a synthetic dark brown colorant. By volume, it is the most widely consumed food coloring in the world, primarily because it is the signature coloring used in Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and other dark sodas.
How it is used in food
Makes cola drinks brown.
Commonly found in- Cola beverages and root beers
- Balsamic vinegar (cheap imitations)
- Gravy browning
Health and safety
Same 4-MEI debate as E150c; potential cancer risk at very high levels.
Because it uses ammonium in its production, E150d contains the chemical byproduct 4-MEI (4-methylimidazole). Following studies linking high doses of 4-MEI to cancer in mice, the State of California mandated cancer warning labels for colas exceeding safe thresholds.
Contains traces of 4-MEI
Contains 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI), a potential carcinogen. While levels have been lowered globally to comply with Californian law, trace amounts remain.
California requires cancer warnings above certain levels; EFSA considers normal consumption safe.
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 | Permitted. High 4-MEI formulations require Proposition 65 cancer warnings in California. |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E150d
Also printed asAcid-proof caramel · Caramel IV · sulfite ammonia caramel
Alternatives to this additive
- Roasted malt extract — Used in clean-label sodas to provide a brown colour naturally.
How it is made
It is manufactured by heating carbohydrates in the presence of both sulphite and ammonium compounds.
- Heating — Carbohydrates are heated under pressure.
- Ammoniation & Sulphitation — Both ammonium and sulphite compounds are added. This makes the colour extremely stable in highly acidic environments (like soda).
Worth knowing
The world’s most-consumed colorant by volume.
Conclusion
To avoid the California warning label, the major cola companies forced manufacturers to alter the E150d recipe to contain drastically less 4-MEI. Today, it is deemed safe by global health authorities, but health advocates still urge caution regarding extreme soda consumption.
References
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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