Caramel Coloring? What's The Deal?

[krystynycole]

I'm new to being gluten free and I'm so overwhelmed with all the information and the contradictions you can find. To make matters tougher I'm also msg and caffeine free as well, so I'm really food limited!

I've read things both ways about caramel coloring and I was wondering if you guys had any general knowledge on the topic. I've read tons of forums on here and it seems that this is where I've found the most "truth" in information as you live. However I had really bad reactions to Christmas party foods (I'm thinking cross contamination) so I'm a little nervous, but would like to know what you think--is caramel coloring gluten-free??

Thanks for any insight.--Kristin

[Lisa]

Caramel color was not considered gluten free years ago, but with new research and refinement, it is no longer a concern for those with Celiac Disease.

I would venture to say, if there is a reactions, that most are due to the high fructose corn syrup, not caramel color.

But, all Coke and Pepsi are...

OOOOPS....forgot to say WELCOME!

[psawyer]

Welcome to the board!

Caramel color is one of those celiac urban myths that just won't go away.

Here is Shelley Case's take on it, from Gluten-Free Diet A Comprehensive Resource Guide:

Although gluten-containing ingredients (barley malt syrup and starch hydrolysates) can be used in the production of caramel color, North American companies use corn as it has a longer shelf life and makes a superior product. European companies use glucose derived from wheat starch, however caramel color is highly processed and contains no gluten.

[Emphasis in original]

[Ox on the Roof]

Oh, yeah! Now that's what I'm talkin' about. I am so glad you asked this, because I've been avoiding caramel color.

Now someone give me a Coke, QUICK!

[Ox on the Roof]

[kareng]

Oh, yeah! Now that's what I'm talkin' about. I am so glad you asked this, because I've been avoiding caramel color.

Now someone give me a Coke, QUICK!

I'm not sure you need anymore sugar or caffiene, young lady!

[Ox on the Roof]

Aw, mom!

[cassP]

i think i may have issues with it (as i do have some intolerances to corn products). i get nauseaus sometimes when i have any cola or Publix iced tea (the only constant is caramel color). is that what some people feel with it?

[lovegrov]

i think i may have issues with it (as i do have some intolerances to corn products). i get nauseaus sometimes when i have any cola or Publix iced tea (the only constant is caramel color). is that what some people feel with it?

Again, caramel color is gluten-free.

[cassP]

Again, caramel color is gluten-free.

i know it is- that's why i included in parenthesis that i have intolerances to corn products.

[krystynycole]

Thank you so much for your replies! My husband will be excited to know I can start putting that back in dinner again