Caustic sulfite caramel

Caustic sulfite caramel is notable for histamine, FODMAPs, salicylate and nickel. Clear on lactose, gluten, fructose, oligosaccharides, sorbitol, sucrose, tyramine and oxalates.

Yes — Caustic sulfite caramel is high in histamine. Caustic sulfite caramel (E150b) is made with sulfite, and that is what puts it here: it can carry residual sulfite, which is a sensitivity of its own and one that overlaps this axis. This is one of only two caramel grades with a real mechanism on this axis - the plain and ammonia grades have none. It colours spirits and vinegars. The caramel itself carries no histamine - it is the residual sulfite that puts it on this page, a different intolerance that often travels with this one.

Caustic sulfite caramel contains only low levels of FODMAPs. Caustic sulfite caramel is sugar heated until it browns and polymerises. What comes out is no longer a simple sugar and is used for colour at very low doses - the sweetness and the fermentable fraction both go into the browning.

Caustic sulfite caramel contains only low levels of salicylate. A caramel colour produced with sulfites, which are a separate intolerance. The salicylate relevance is by association with the additive block, not chemistry.

Caustic sulfite caramel contains only low levels of nickel. Caustic sulfite caramel is made with sulfite instead of ammonia, and is the one used in spirits. Same near-empty starting material, same trace from the process. For this additive there is no legal nickel ceiling at all. Amounts vary by brand and recipe, so always check the label of the exact product.