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Answer: Caramel Color Class III is restricted (not fully banned) in California (Prop 65 requires warning for 4-MEI above 29 mcg/day). The FDA still allows it in US food. Risk level: medium. Commonly found in: Various beer brands, Kikkoman Soy Sauce, Heinz Brown Gravy.
TL;DR: Caramel Color Class III is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (flavoring).
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Also called ammonia caramel. (E150c) CAS 8028-89-5.
Other names: E150c, ammonia caramel, beer caramel
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | medium |
| Where it shows up | Various beer brands, Kikkoman Soy Sauce, Heinz Brown Gravy, Some malt beverages |
| CAS number | 8028-89-5 |
Caramel color Class III (E150c) is produced by heating carbohydrates with ammonium compounds but without sulfite compounds. The ammonia processing creates byproducts including 2-acetyl-4-tetrahydroxybutylimidazole (THI) and 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI). It is commonly used in beer and malt beverages.
Provides dark brown coloring in beer, gravy, and sauces; produces a characteristic malty flavor.
The 4-MEI byproduct from ammonia-processed caramel colors was classified by IARC as a possible carcinogen (Group 2B) in 2012, based on mouse studies showing increased lung tumor incidence. California's Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) classified 4-MEI as a carcinogen under Proposition 65 in 2011, requiring warning labels on products exceeding 29 mcg per serving. EFSA reviewed 4-MEI and in 2011 concluded there was no safety concern at expected dietary exposures, though the class B carcinogen designation remains.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Caramel Color Class IIIwith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Class I caramel (E150a), malt extract, or carob powder provide dark coloring without ammonia processing.
It contains 4-MEI, classified as a possible carcinogen by IARC (Group 2B). California requires a warning label for significant 4-MEI exposure.
Coca-Cola uses Class IV (E150d). Class III is more common in beer and soy sauces.
Not banned, but California's Prop 65 restricts products without a carcinogen warning above the 29 mcg threshold.
4-Methylimidazole is a byproduct of ammonia-based caramel color production, classified as a possible human carcinogen.
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