Colorants In Drinks - Are They Normal?

Author: Victoria Aly Time for reading: ~0 minutes Last Updated: February 12, 2026

A study urges the FDA to set maximum levels for caramel coloring when artificially added.

The US Food and Drug Administration is launching new studies on the safety of caramel coloring in soft drinks and food, although previous ones have not identified a health risk .

The measures were provoked in response to a study conducted by Consumer Reports , which showed different levels of 4-methylimidazole - an impurity that is formed at low levels in some caramel dyes during the production process.

The data from the Consumer Reports survey refer to 12 different brands from five manufacturers.

There are no federal restrictions on the amount of 4-methylimidazole , which the Administration explains can be formed in small amounts when roasting coffee beans, as well as in some meats that are prepared on the grill.

The Consumer Reports study urges the FDA to set maximum levels for the substance when it is added artificially to foods and beverages. And also require marking of product labels.

Over a period of eight months, the study found that single "portions" of two products purchased in California exceeded 29 micrograms of the substance 4-methylimidazole .

Colorants In Drinks - Are They Normal?

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