Is Caramel Color Class I Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Caramel Color Class I is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (flavoring).
Also called plain caramel. (E150a) CAS 8028-89-5.
Other names: E150a, plain caramel, caramel color type I
Is Caramel Color Class I banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Samuel Adams Beer, Heinz Apple Cider Vinegar, Jack Daniel's Whiskey, Whole grain bread, Some coffee drinks |
| CAS number | 8028-89-5 |
What is Caramel Color Class I?
Caramel color Class I (E150a) is produced by heating carbohydrates (such as sugar or glucose syrup) in a controlled manner without ammonium or sulfite compounds. It is the simplest form of caramel coloring. It provides a yellow to amber color and a mild caramel flavor. It is used in beer, vinegar, and some spirits.
Why is Caramel Color Class I used in food?
Provides golden to amber coloring in beer, vinegar, spirits, and some baked goods; imparts mild caramel flavor notes.
Is Caramel Color Class I dangerous? Documented risks
Considered safe. Class I caramel is produced without chemicals that create 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI) or 2-acetyl-4-tetrahydroxybutylimidazole (THI), the concerning byproducts found in Class III and IV caramels. No significant safety concerns have been identified with E150a at typical food use levels. EFSA and FDA both consider it safe.
Common US products containing Caramel Color Class I
- Samuel Adams Beer
- Heinz Apple Cider Vinegar
- Jack Daniel's Whiskey
- Whole grain bread
- Some coffee drinks
How to avoid Caramel Color Class I: safer alternatives
Malt extract, molasses, or natural fruit-based colorants provide similar golden coloring without synthetic processing.
Frequently asked questions about Caramel Color Class I
Is caramel color Class I the same as the one in Coke?
No. Coke uses Class IV caramel (E150d), produced with ammonium compounds and associated with 4-MEI formation.
Is caramel color I safe?
Yes — it is the safest of the four caramel color classes with no ammonium or sulfite processing chemicals.
What is the difference between the four caramel colors?
Classes I–IV differ in production method: Class I uses no reactants, II uses sulfite, III uses ammonia, IV uses both sulfite and ammonia.
Is caramel color I banned anywhere?
No. All four classes are permitted in the EU and US, though Class III/IV face California Prop 65 concerns.
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Sources
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.