Eat or Avoid
E150b

Caustic Sulfite Caramel

Also known as: Caramel Color II, Class II Caramel

Colorants

Safety rating

Use Sparingly

Eat Away!Generally SafeUse SparinglyAvoid

Purpose and Function

Caustic Sulfite Caramel (E150b) is made by heating carbohydrates with sulfite compounds, providing a brown color that's more stable than E150a in certain applications without altering taste.

Commonly found in

  • Beer, especially lagers
  • Candies, chocolates, and sweets
  • Breads, cakes, and baked goods
  • Soy sauce, vinegar, and gravies

Key functions

  • Provides a stable brown color without altering taste

Potential Risks and Side Effects

  1. 01Sulfite-sensitive individuals may experience headaches, difficulty breathing, or rashes
  2. 02Does not contain 4-MEI-producing ammonium compounds, unlike E150c and E150d
  3. 03Approved by the EU, FDA, and other regulatory bodies within safe limits

References

    Related Additives