What is E150?

Caramel is a range of food ingredients made by heating sugars to high temperatures. It is used as a flavoring in puddings and desserts, as a filling in bonbons or candy bars, as a topping for ice cream and custard, and as a colorant commonly used in drinks. E150 sits in the E100–E199 series, which in the EU classification mainly covers colours.

What is E150 used for?

E150 belongs to the colours group. Colours are added to give or restore colour to food. Some are natural, like curcumin from turmeric; some synthetic dyes are debated and require warning labels in the EU.

Is E150 safe?

E150 is rated “moderate”. It is approved for use in food, but some people prefer to limit it. “Moderate” means it is approved, but is debated or something some people prefer to limit.

How E150 appears on labels

On food packaging you'll find E150 either as the number “E150” or by the name “Caramel colour” in the ingredient list, often after its function. Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, so an additive near the end is present only in small amounts.

Is E150 vegan?

Yes, E150 is suitable for vegans.