Ammoniacal caramel
Learn what Ammoniacal caramel (E150c) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Ammoniacal caramel?
Food additives from the category of artificial colorants. They provide a color ranging from brown to black and are allowed to be used in any type of food. They can be found in some counterfeit soy sauces, where, if the presence of caramel is not listed on the label, it can be observed by the color infiltrating the walls of the bottle above the liquid level. They are obtained by heating and burning sugars (glucose, fructose) to carbonization, either mixed with acidic or alkaline substances or not. The burning of sugars occurs in the presence or absence of ammonia, sodium sulfite, potassium sulfite, or combinations of these. The presence of ammonia or sulfites enhances and intensifies the color. They are soluble in water and have a specific taste, sometimes bitter.
Why is Ammoniacal caramel added to food?
Ammoniacal caramel (E150c) is a colorant commonly found in: Candies, soy sauce.
Permitted quantity: The maximum acceptable daily intake for humans is up to 160 mg/kg body weight for E 150b and 200 mg/kg body weight for E 150c and E 150d.
Is Ammoniacal caramel safe?
Low concern
It can cause intestinal disorders if consumed in large quantities.
Is Ammoniacal caramel banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Ammoniacal caramel okay for kids?
This additive is allowed in food for children within the imposed limits.
Common foods that contain Ammoniacal caramel
- Candies
- soy sauce
See the full list of foods that contain Ammoniacal caramel →
How to spot Ammoniacal caramel on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E150c
- Ammoniacal caramel
Common misspellings to watch for:
- ammoniacal earamel
- ammonidcal caramel
- ammoniacdl caramel
- ammoniaeal caramel
- ammonlacal caramel
- ammoniacal caramel
- ammoniacal cdramel
- ammoniacal cardmel
- dmmoniacal caramel
Better alternatives
• It may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to ammonia or other associated chemicals. • Excessive consumption can irritate gastric or intestinal mucous membranes. • People with liver or kidney conditions should avoid consuming it in large quantities, as ammonia can put additional pressure on the liver and kidneys.
Also known as
- ammoniacal earamel
- ammonidcal caramel
- ammoniacdl caramel
- ammoniaeal caramel
- ammonlacal caramel
- ammoniacal caramel
- ammoniacal cdramel
- ammoniacal cardmel
- dmmoniacal caramel
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Ammoniacal caramel? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E150c — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Ammoniacal caramel
- Is Ammoniacal caramel safe to eat?
- It can cause intestinal disorders if consumed in large quantities.
- Is Ammoniacal caramel banned anywhere?
- Ammoniacal caramel is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Ammoniacal caramel safe for children?
- This additive is allowed in food for children within the imposed limits.
- How do I spot Ammoniacal caramel on a food label?
- Look for E150c, Ammoniacal caramel in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: ammoniacal earamel, ammonidcal caramel, ammoniacdl caramel.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.