Vegetable Carbon
Vegetable Carbon, INS 153, E 153
Vegetable carbon is an insoluble black pigment produced by the carbonization of vegetable materials at high temperatures. Raw materials may include wood, cellulose residues, peat, coconut shells, and other plant-derived sources.
The carbonization process results in a highly stable pigment, resistant to:
- Heat
- Light
- Oxidation
Applications in the Food Industry such as:
- Confectionary (liquorice)
- Fine bakery wares
- Ice cream and water ice
- Sugar and chocolate decorations
- Cheese coatings
Specification and Regulatory status
- USA:
Not approved
- CODEX:
VEGETABLE CARBON INS153 – JECFA evaluation: Not approved fully
No assessment in food categories
- EU:
Vegetable Carbon E153 – Purity criteria Regulation 231/2012
Group II: Colour at quantum satis – Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008