E150bColorant

Sodium sulfite caramel

Learn what Sodium sulfite caramel (E150b) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.

Low concern

What is Sodium sulfite 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 Sodium sulfite caramel added to food?

Sodium sulfite caramel (E150b) 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 Sodium sulfite caramel safe?

Low concern

It can cause intestinal disorders if consumed in large quantities.

Is Sodium sulfite caramel banned anywhere?

✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.

Is Sodium sulfite caramel okay for kids?

This additive is allowed in food for children within the imposed limits.

Common foods that contain Sodium sulfite caramel

  • Candies
  • soy sauce

See the full list of foods that contain Sodium sulfite caramel

How to spot Sodium sulfite caramel on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

  • E150b
  • Sodium sulfite caramel

Common misspellings to watch for:

  • sodium sulfite earamel
  • sodium sulflte caramel
  • $odium sulfite caramel
  • sodium suliite caramel
  • sodium sulfite caramel
  • sodium sulfite cardmel
  • sodium $ulfite caramel
  • sodlum sulfite caramel
  • sodium sulfite cdramel
  • sodium sultite caramel

Better alternatives

• It may cause allergic reactions or sensitivity in individuals sensitive to sulfites. • Excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal irritation, including bloating or diarrhea. • People with asthma or respiratory conditions should avoid consumption, as sulfites can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Explore homemade alternatives to processed snacks →

Also known as

  • sodium sulfite earamel
  • sodium sulflte caramel
  • $odium sulfite caramel
  • sodium suliite caramel
  • sodium sulfite caramel
  • sodium sulfite cardmel
  • sodium $ulfite caramel
  • sodlum sulfite caramel
  • sodium sulfite cdramel
  • sodium sultite caramel

Scan products with BioBrief

Not sure if a product contains Sodium sulfite caramel? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E150b — with a plain-language explanation.

Frequently asked questions about Sodium sulfite caramel

Is Sodium sulfite caramel safe to eat?
It can cause intestinal disorders if consumed in large quantities.
Is Sodium sulfite caramel banned anywhere?
Sodium sulfite caramel is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Sodium sulfite caramel safe for children?
This additive is allowed in food for children within the imposed limits.
How do I spot Sodium sulfite caramel on a food label?
Look for E150b, Sodium sulfite caramel in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sodium sulfite earamel, sodium sulflte caramel, $odium sulfite caramel.

Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.