Vegetable carbon
What is Vegetable carbon?
Vegetable carbon, also known as activated charcoal, is a fine black powder produced by the controlled burning of organic materials such as wood or coconut shells. The process of 'activation' involves heating the carbon to very high temperatures, creating a porous structure that increases its surface area and adsorptive properties.
Is Vegetable carbon vegan?
Vegetable carbon is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Vegetable carbon gluten-free?
It is not a source of gluten.
Is Vegetable carbon a major allergen?
Vegetable carbon is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Vegetable carbon used for?
Manufacturers use vegetable carbon primarily as a food colourant, imparting a deep black hue to various products.
Is Vegetable carbon safe?
Vegetable carbon (E153) is an authorised food additive in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use vegetable carbon primarily as a food colourant, imparting a deep black hue to various products. It is found in a range of foods, including confectionery, baked goods, and some dairy products, where a striking black or grey colour is desired.
Health notes
Vegetable carbon (E153) is an authorised food additive in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. European food safety authorities have evaluated it, and JECFA has evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. While it has been studied for potential effects, such as binding to certain substances in the digestive tract, its use as a food colourant at typical levels in the UK is not associated with adverse health effects according to regulatory bodies. Some research has explored its use in specific medical contexts, but these are separate from its role as a food additive.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 1.7.2 ripened cheese | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote | No numerical limit listed |
| 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans | No numerical limit listed |
Allergen info
Vegetable carbon is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not a source of gluten.
Foods that contain Vegetable carbon
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