colour INS 100

Curcumin E100

natural — Primarily plant-derived.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

diferuloylmethane

CAS: 458-37-7

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Curcumin occurs naturally in turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizome and ginger family (Zingiberaceae). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Curcumin is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: varies by food category mg/kg

Quantum satis in some categories; specific limits in others

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved Exempt from certification

Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

0–3 mg/kg bw/day

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

3 mg/kg bw/day

Natural Occurrence

A yellow pigment naturally present in the rhizome of the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa), which is native to South Asia.

turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizomeginger family (Zingiberaceae)

Manufacturing

Method: extraction

Commercially produced by solvent extraction from turmeric rhizomes using ethanol or hexane, followed by purification and crystallization.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used as a natural colorant in skincare products, soaps, and hair care formulations.

Medical

Used as an excipient for coloring in tablets and capsules. Extensively studied for anti-inflammatory properties.

Industrial

Used as a pH indicator and in textile dyeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Curcumin (E100)?

Curcumin (E100) is a colour used in food products. It is natural and plant-derived. A yellow pigment naturally present in the rhizome of the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa), which is native to South Asia.

Where is Curcumin found naturally?

Curcumin is naturally found in turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizome, ginger family (Zingiberaceae). A yellow pigment naturally present in the rhizome of the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa), which is native to South Asia.

What is the ADI for Curcumin?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Curcumin is 0–3 mg/kg bw/day as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Curcumin?

Curcumin is used in various food categories including Flavoured fermented milk products, Other confectionery including breath refreshening microsweets. It is used as a colour in these products.

Is Curcumin the same as Turmeric Yellow?

Yes, Curcumin is also known as Turmeric Yellow, CI 75300, Natural Yellow 3. These are different names for the same substance.