⚠️ Safety Verdict: Most Controversial Caramel
E150d is the most discussed caramel colour due to its use in cola drinks and higher 4-MEI content. While approved worldwide, California's Prop 65 forced Coca-Cola and Pepsi to reformulate to reduce 4-MEI levels. At typical consumption, EFSA and FDA consider it safe. Heavy cola drinkers may want to moderate intake.
💡 Why It's Called "The Cola Caramel"
E150d is specifically designed for acidic beverages like cola, root beer, and other dark soft drinks. It's more stable than other caramels in acidic, carbonated environments and provides the characteristic dark brown cola colour.
What is E150d (Sulphite Ammonia Caramel)?
E150d is a dark brown food colouring made by heating sugars with both ammonia and sulphite compounds. It's the most commonly used caramel colour globally, particularly in the beverage industry.
Why it's used:
- Acid stability – remains stable in acidic drinks (pH 2.5-4.5)
- Carbonation compatible – doesn't separate or settle
- Consistent colour – uniform dark brown in large batches
- Cost-effective – cheaper than alternatives
- No flavour impact – colour only
Where is E150d Found?
- Cola drinks – Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and all cola brands
- Root beer and dark soft drinks
- Energy drinks (dark varieties)
- Some whiskeys and brandies (for colour consistency)
- Sauces – soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, BBQ sauce
- Pre-made coffee drinks
- Dark rum (some brands)
The 4-MEI Controversy
⚠️ 4-Methylimidazole (4-MEI) – The Concern
E150d typically contains the highest levels of 4-MEI among caramel colours:
- 4-MEI is a byproduct of ammonia + sugar heating
- In 2011, California added 4-MEI to its Prop 65 cancer warning list
- Products exceeding 29mcg per serving require cancer warnings in California
- This forced Coca-Cola and Pepsi to reduce 4-MEI by 80-90%
What the Science Actually Says
- Animal studies: Cancer at very high doses (thousands of times human exposure)
- Human studies: No evidence of cancer at dietary exposure levels
- EFSA: "No concern at current exposure levels" (2011, reaffirmed)
- FDA: "Would need to consume 1,000+ cans of cola daily to approach concerning levels"
- IARC: Has not classified 4-MEI as carcinogenic
Post-2012 Reformulation
After California's warning, major manufacturers reformulated:
- Coca-Cola reduced 4-MEI by ~90%
- Pepsi reduced 4-MEI to below warning thresholds
- Most major brands now use "reduced 4-MEI" E150d
- The same formulations are now used worldwide, not just in California
Is E150d Safe?
At typical consumption, yes. However, it remains the most debated caramel:
Regulatory Position
- ✅ EFSA – No safety concern at current exposure (ADI: 300mg/kg body weight)
- ✅ FDA – Approved, no restrictions
- ✅ UK FSA – Approved for use
- ⚠️ California Prop 65 – Warning if >29mcg 4-MEI per serving
Practical Advice
- ✅ Occasional cola consumption is fine
- ⚠️ Heavy cola drinkers (3+ daily) may want to moderate
- ✅ Post-2012 formulations have much lower 4-MEI
- ✅ Other soft drink options (lemonade, clear sodas) don't contain E150d
- ✅ Water remains the healthiest beverage choice
🔍 Check Which Caramel Your Drinks Contain
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E150d vs Other Caramels
| Type |
4-MEI Level |
Main Uses |
| E150a |
None |
Bakery, desserts |
| E150b |
Minimal |
Spirits, vinegar |
| E150c |
Moderate |
Beer, soy sauce |
| E150d |
Highest (now reduced) |
Cola, dark soft drinks |
The Bottom Line
E150d (Sulphite Ammonia Caramel) is the most controversial but still considered safe:
- ⚠️ Contains 4-MEI (though greatly reduced since 2012)
- ✅ Approved by all major food safety authorities
- ✅ No human evidence of harm at dietary levels
- ⚠️ Heavy cola consumption has other health concerns (sugar, acidity)
- ✅ Reformulation has reduced 4-MEI by 80-90%
- ✅ If concerned, choose E150a-containing products or clear beverages
Last updated: February 2026