Is Caramel Color Class III Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Caramel Color Class III is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (flavoring).
Also called ammonia caramel. (E150c) CAS 8028-89-5.
Other names: E150c, ammonia caramel, beer caramel
Is Caramel Color Class III banned in the EU?
| 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 |
What is Caramel Color Class III?
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.
Why is Caramel Color Class III used in food?
Provides dark brown coloring in beer, gravy, and sauces; produces a characteristic malty flavor.
Is Caramel Color Class III dangerous? Documented risks
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.
Common US products containing Caramel Color Class III
- Various beer brands
- Kikkoman Soy Sauce
- Heinz Brown Gravy
- Some malt beverages
How to avoid Caramel Color Class III: safer alternatives
Class I caramel (E150a), malt extract, or carob powder provide dark coloring without ammonia processing.
Frequently asked questions about Caramel Color Class III
Is Class III caramel color dangerous?
It contains 4-MEI, classified as a possible carcinogen by IARC (Group 2B). California requires a warning label for significant 4-MEI exposure.
Is caramel color III in Coke?
Coca-Cola uses Class IV (E150d). Class III is more common in beer and soy sauces.
Is caramel color III banned anywhere?
Not banned, but California's Prop 65 restricts products without a carcinogen warning above the 29 mcg threshold.
What is 4-MEI?
4-Methylimidazole is a byproduct of ammonia-based caramel color production, classified as a possible human carcinogen.
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Sources
- EFSA Scientific Opinion on caramel colours — 4-methylimidazole assessment — EFSA
- IARC Monographs — 4-Methylimidazole (Group 2B) — IARC
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.