E150b – Caustic Sulphite Caramel Colour Explained
E150b is a caramel brown food colouring produced by heating sugars with sulphite compounds. It is widely used in foods and beverages to achieve a deep brown colour.
Things worth knowing about "E150b"
E150b is a caramel brown food colouring produced by heating sugars with sulphite compounds. It is widely used in foods and beverages to achieve a deep brown colour.
What is E150b?
E150b, also known as caustic sulphite caramel, is a dark brown food colouring belonging to the group of caramel colours. It is produced by the controlled heating of carbohydrates -- such as glucose, sucrose, or starch hydrolysates -- in the presence of sulphite compounds. The European Union classifies E150b as a permitted food additive.
Production
During the production of E150b, sugar-based starting materials are caramelised under the influence of heat and sulphite compounds. This process generates complex brown colour pigments and characteristic flavour substances. The addition of sulphite distinguishes E150b from other caramel colours such as E150a (plain caramel), E150c (ammonia caramel), and E150d (sulphite ammonia caramel).
Use in Food
E150b is used in a wide range of food products and beverages to achieve an appealing brown to dark brown colour. Typical applications include:
- Alcoholic beverages (e.g., certain whisky and brandy varieties)
- Vinegar and vinegar preparations
- Sauces and condiments
- Pastries and baked goods
- Jams and fruit spreads
Safety and Health Assessment
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated E150b and established an acceptable daily intake (ADI). When used as intended and within permitted levels, E150b is considered safe for human health.
However, individuals with known sulphite sensitivity or sulphite allergy should exercise caution, as E150b may contain residual sulphite compounds that can trigger allergic reactions or intolerances in sensitive individuals. Possible symptoms include:
- Skin reactions (redness, itching)
- Respiratory complaints (particularly in individuals with asthma)
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
Labelling Requirements
In the European Union, food products containing E150b must list it in the ingredient declaration. The labelling may appear as E150b or as caramel colour. Since E150b may contain sulphite residues, sulphite labelling may also be required when the sulphite content exceeds a defined threshold.
Regulatory Status in the EU
E150b is approved in the EU under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives. The permitted maximum levels vary depending on the food category and are defined in Annex II of that Regulation.
References
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Re-evaluation of caramel colours (E 150 a, b, c, d) as food additives. EFSA Journal, 2011.
- European Commission: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on food additives, 2008.
- World Health Organization (WHO) / Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA): Caramel colours safety evaluation, Geneva.
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Related search terms: E150b-en