E150c

E150c: Ammonia caramel

Moderate concernFunction: colour

What is E150c?

E150c (Ammonia caramel) is a colour used in processed foods.

What the research says

Brown colour made with ammonia compounds. It can contain the by-products 4-MEI and THI, which have raised safety questions.

Regulatory status

European UnionApproved
United StatesApproved

Questions people ask

Is E150c (Ammonia caramel) safe?

Brown colour made with ammonia compounds. It can contain the by-products 4-MEI and THI, which have raised safety questions.

Why is E150c added to food?

It is used as a colour.

Does E150c make a food ultra-processed?

Yes. Under the NOVA system, cosmetic additives such as E150c mark a food as ultra-processed.

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