Sulfite caramel (E150b) – what is it?
Sulfite caramel is a type of food color that is produced by heat treatment of sugars in the presence of sulfite compounds. It is one of the four main types of caramel used in the food industry, designated as E150b. This caramel is characterized by its deep brown color and is used to impart color to various food products.
The sulfite compounds used in the production of this color act as stabilizers, making sulfite caramel more resistant to changes in temperature and light than caramels produced without them. However, the presence of sulfites can be problematic for people with sulfite allergies, which should be taken into account by manufacturers and consumers.
Properties of Sulfite Caramel
Sulfite caramel is distinguished by its high color stability, which is especially important in products that are subjected to long storage or intensive processing. Its color ranges from golden brown to dark brown, depending on concentration and production conditions. It is soluble in water, making it easy to use in many food products.
Uses of Sulfite Caramel
Sulfite caramel is used to color a wide range of food products, including alcoholic beverages such as whiskey and cognac, soft drinks, sauces, baked goods, pastries and canned goods. Because of its stability, it is often chosen for products that require a long shelf life or undergo processing that can affect color.
Where to buy sulfite caramel?
Sulfite caramel is mainly available to food manufacturers and can be purchased from wholesalers specializing in food raw materials and online stores. It is usually available in liquid or powder form, which allows for easy dosing and mixing with other ingredients.
Sulfite caramel and its functions in food
In the food industry, sulfite caramel mainly serves as a colorant, giving products an attractive and uniform color. Its stability under various storage and processing conditions makes it a suitable choice for many food products. However, due to the presence of sulfites, manufacturers should take into account potential allergies and label products containing this colorant accordingly.
