EFSA revises caramel colour exposure estimate

EFSA has revised its estimate of consumer exposure to three caramel colours – E 150a, E 150c, E 150d – used in a variety of foods and beverages.

Using new data on the levels of the three caramel colours as they are used in food and drinks as well as new consumption data, EFSA has concluded that consumer exposure to these colours is considerably lower than that expressed in the Authority’s 2011 scientific opinion.

“In most cases, the revised exposure estimate is below the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) established by EFSA’s experts in 2011,” says a spokesman. “However, for toddlers and adults whose intake is very high, exposure may exceed the ADIs for the caramel E 150c.”