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Sugar colorant IV
A caramel coloring agent produced by controlled heat treatment of sugars, commonly used in foods and beverages as a color additive. Classified as Caramel Color IV, it is produced with ammonium compounds and may contain 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI). It is approved by the FDA but has raised some health concerns.
Mineral or nutrientUpdated Feb 14, 2026
Health score-2.0
-5Poor5
Water guidelines
- Legal limit
- Not specified
- Health guideline
- Not specified
Food and supplement guidelines
- Legal limit
- Not specified
- Health guideline
- Not specified
Risks
Contains 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI) which has potential carcinogenic effects based on animal studies, possible association with cancer risk upon high chronic exposure
Benefits
Provides color and aesthetic appeal in foods and beverages, generally recognized as safe at typical consumption levels
Waters containing Sugar colorant IV
1 matches