E150a , Plain Caramel

Why this classification

Made by heating carbohydrates. Safe. Common in spirits, vinegars.

Common uses in industrial food

Plain Caramel (E150a) is used by food manufacturers for restoring or enhancing the colour lost during industrial processing, mainly in confectionery, sodas, sauces and convenience meals. It is most often listed in the ingredient panel as E150a, Plain Caramel, or under one of its trade names. On a NutriDécrypte product page, this additive contributes to the additives axis (20% of the overall A to E grade), and triggers a label warning when its EFSA risk level is medium or high.

If you want to limit your exposure to this additive, the simplest tactic is to read the ingredients list (not just the front-of-pack), and to favour products graded A or B in our independent catalog. Less processed, NOVA-1 or NOVA-2 categories rarely contain it.

Frequently asked questions

Is E150a (Plain Caramel) safe?

EFSA classifies the risk level of E150a as low risk in its latest review. Always read the latest official opinion before drawing conclusions for your own diet, and consult a registered dietitian for medical questions.

What is E150a typically used for?

Food manufacturers use Plain Caramel primarily for restoring or enhancing the colour lost during industrial processing, mainly in confectionery, sodas, sauces and convenience meals. You will most often find it in ultra-processed foods (NOVA group 4) and rarely in unprocessed or minimally processed products (NOVA 1 or 2).

How can I avoid E150a on a label?

Look for the code E150a or its full name Plain Caramel in the ingredients list, usually printed in small font on the back of the pack. Cooking from raw ingredients, choosing NOVA-1 or NOVA-2 alternatives, and using the NutriDécrypte rankings to filter by grade A or B are the three most reliable strategies.