Contents
Dye E 100
What is curcumin?
Curcumin (E 100) is a food additive commonly used in the food industry to improve the appearance of products.
This colorant provides yellow and orange tones, and is extracted from the turmeric root. It can also be obtained synthetically or by bacterial fermentation.
Chemical properties of curcumin
It is a photosensitive substance, with antioxidant action. In large doses it stimulates bile flow.
Uses in diet of curcumin
This colorant is used in:
Margarines, jams, preserves, potato flakes, non-alcoholic flavored drinks, cold cuts, patés, mustard sauce, baked goods, sweets, spice mixes (curries), rice dishes, precooked food.
Curcumin toxicity
It is considered a harmless colorant, therefore its ADI is not determined.
In sensitive people it can produce adverse reactions.
May cause allergy to people allergic to pollen or mugwort.
It can trigger an outbreak of neurodermatitis.
Other food preservatives that are commonly used in food:
– Lutein, xanthophyll and tagetes extract – E 161b
More information on food additives
