E100 โ€” curcumin

E100, known as curcumin, is a natural orange-yellow colorant derived from the rhizomes of the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa). It is widely used in the food industry to impart color and is also recognized for its potential health benefits.

Chemical Composition and Properties

Curcumin is the principal curcuminoid of turmeric, with the chemical formula Cโ‚‚โ‚Hโ‚‚โ‚€Oโ‚†. It is poorly soluble in water but soluble in ethanol and dimethyl sulfoxide. Curcumin exhibits stability under acidic conditions but can degrade under alkaline conditions and when exposed to light.

Natural Occurrence

Curcumin is naturally present in turmeric, a spice commonly used in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. Turmeric contains approximately 2-8% curcuminoids, with curcumin being the most abundant.

Applications in the Food Industry

E100 is utilized as a food coloring agent to provide an orange-yellow hue to various products, including dairy items, baked goods, confectioneries, and beverages. It is favored for being a natural alternative to synthetic colorants.

Health and Safety Considerations

Curcumin has been extensively studied for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. It may aid in managing oxidative and inflammatory conditions, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, anxiety, and hyperlipidemia.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated curcumin (E100) and established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 0โ€“3 mg/kg body weight per day. This assessment aligns with the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) evaluation.

While curcumin is generally considered safe, high doses may lead to adverse effects such as digestive issues, headaches, or skin rashes. However, there is currently no evidence that lower amounts of curcumin cause serious side effects in humans when taken over short periods, though human studies on the long-term effects are lacking.

Conclusion

E100 (curcumin) is a natural food colorant with a low danger level, widely used in the food industry and recognized for its potential health benefits. When consumed within the established acceptable daily intake, it is considered safe for human consumption. However, individuals should be mindful of their overall intake, especially when using supplements, to avoid potential adverse effects associated with high doses.