Category: Colours

100–199 – COLOURS
100–107 Yellows
110–111 Oranges
120–129 Reds
130–139 Blues and violets
140–149 Greens
150–159 Browns and blacks
160–199 Gold and others

E160c – Paprika Extract (Capsanthin, Capsorubin)

Natural red-orange colorant extracted from paprika (Capsicum annuum). E160c – Paprika extract (Capsanthin, Capsorubin) is graded GREEN – SAFE due to its natural origin, strong antioxidant profile, and regulatory approval by EFSA and FDA.
E142 – Green S (Acid Green 50)

E142 – Green S (Acid Green 50) is a synthetic triarylmethane dye used for coloring canned peas, sauces, and sweets. Learn why it is banned in the US and Canada, allowed in the EU with limits, and graded RED – UNSAFE for allergy and hyperactivity concerns.
E150d – Sulfite Ammonia Caramel (Class IV)

E150d (Sulfite Ammonia Caramel) is the darkest caramel used widely in colas and sauces. It can form 4‑MeI and retain traces of sulfite, so we grade it ORANGE – SOME CONCERNS even though typical exposures remain below regulatory limits.
E170 – Calcium carbonate

Calcium carbonate (E170) is a naturally occurring mineral used as a white food colorant and acidity regulator. It is considered safe by EFSA and FDA when used within regulated limits.
E150c – Ammonia Caramel (Class III)

E150c (Ammonia Caramel) uses ammonium compounds during manufacture and can form trace 4‑MeI. Regulators apply a lower ADI for this class, and we grade it ORANGE – SOME CONCERNS to reflect the by‑product issue.
E150b – Caustic Sulfite Caramel (Class II)

E150b (Caustic Sulfite Caramel) is made with sulfite compounds. It is safe for most consumers but may trigger intolerance in sulfite‑sensitive individuals. Our grading is ORANGE – SOME CONCERNS to reflect this practical risk.
E150a – Plain Caramel (Class I)

E150a (Plain Caramel) is produced by heating sugars without ammonium or sulfite compounds. It is chemically simpler, does not generate nitrogenous by‑products like 4‑MeI, and is considered safe at permitted uses. We grade it GREEN – SAFE.
E141 – Copper complexes of chlorophylls

E141 (Copper complexes of chlorophylls) are natural green food colorants. Safe, stable, and widely used in beverages, canned vegetables, and confectionery.
E140 – Chlorophylls

Chlorophylls (E140) are natural green pigments used as food colorants. Safe, non-toxic, and with possible antioxidant benefits.
E160a – Beta-carotene

Beta-carotene (E160a) is a natural orange pigment and vitamin A precursor. Safe, widely used in foods, and beneficial as an antioxidant.
E172 – Iron oxides and hydroxides

Colouring additive rated ORANGE – SOME CONCERNS due to safety debates, though legally permitted in EU and US.
E124 – Ponceau 4R

Ponceau 4R (E124) is a synthetic red azo dye banned in the US and Canada, allowed under restrictions in the EU, and linked to health concerns including hyperactivity and allergic reactions. Classified RED – UNSAFE.
E171 – Titanium dioxide

Titanium dioxide (E171) is a whitening/opacity agent banned in the EU (2022) after EFSA concluded it can no longer be considered safe. Still permitted in the US up to 1% by weight.
E128 – Red 2G

Red 2G (E128) is a synthetic azo dye, banned in the EU since 2007 due to carcinogenic concerns.
E123 – Amaranth

Amaranth (E123) is a synthetic red azo dye banned in the US and many countries due to cancer risk. Still permitted in limited EU uses, it is classified as UNSAFE and should be avoided.
E129 – Allura Red AC

Allura Red AC (E129), also known as FD&C Red No. 40 in the United States, is a bright red azo dye used extensively in beverages, confectionery, dairy desserts, baked goods, and pharmaceuticals.
E102 – Tartrazine

Tartrazine (E102) is a synthetic lemon-yellow azo dye used widely in processed foods, beverages, medicines, and cosmetics.