The Dangers of Caramel Coloring

TODAY'S TIP: Readers often ask if caramel coloring has gluten (it can). It can also contain a carcinogen called 4-Mel. Long-term studies have shown that it CAUSED lung cancer in mice. 

Caramel coloring can be derived from different grains, including barley (high in gluten) &/or corn. In the U.S, it appears to be mostly corn derived. As for the amount of gluten in caramel coloring, there are 2 sides of the argument here - one claims that gluten proteins (or other proteins) are distilled down too far to cause a reaction, while the other side questions this, since there is not testing or laws in place to prove otherwise, and also because there are a significant number of people whose personal experience is that they do react (allergic reaction or celiac reaction) to caramel coloring and other highly distilled grain products.

However, it isn't just people w/ celiac or allergies who should avoid it, we all need to for the sake of our health. Many soy sauces (many restaurant soy sauces list it as the 1st or 2nd ingredient), imitation maple syrup, cola, gravy, etc. contain caramel coloring that uses 4-Mel. And major brands use 4-Mel, acc. to a Consumer Reports study. One can of certain sodas can contain very high amounts, and most soda drinkers drink more than one can per day.

I hate the word, "should", but there are simply to many people w/ cancer and immune issues to softball this one.

Previous studies of 4-MeI have found long-term exposure to the chemical caused lung cancer in mice, according to the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment. That prompted the state to add 4-MeI to its list of potentially toxic chemicals under Proposition 65, which requires warning labels on products containing concerning levels of the chemical -- in this case 29 micrograms of 4-MeI per can or bottle.

Caramel coloring chemical linked to cancer found in "too high" levels in some colas

ByRyan JaslowCBS NewsJanuary 23, 2014, 12:13 PM

• Dr. Oz, also did a segment on products containing 4-Mel.  See it here.
• Here's the story on NPR: Potential Carcinogen In Colas Has FDA Reviewing Data
• The LA Times: Pepsi One contains higher level of carcinogen, report says

Hidden Gluten: Low Fat Dairy? Yep.

If you are one of the lucky people who are allergic or sensitive to gluten, or have celiac disease, but not allergic to dairy, watch out for low fat dairy products.  Gluten is a popular thickener that replaces the fat that the "low fat" people remove. Because of new labeling laws, you "should" see it on the label, however, gluten may not need to be labeled if it is distilled. Some people still react to allergens that are distilled.

Low fat is also often laced w/ sugar, as well as additives, so chances are you won't be missing any great health benefits if you pass up the low fat.

Hidden Gluten in Bacon? Here's How to Find the Right Gateway Meat.

Bacon: if it is made w/ smoke flavoring, the flavoring can be derived from various sources of gluten (including barley, and brewer's yeast. Brewer's yeast is a by product of beer.)  A clue to safe bacon is that which is local, apple or hickory smoked - but call the manufacturer to double check.

Avoid Bulk Bins, Common Sources of Allergens

Bulk bins are reasonable and inviting, but they are also havens for common food allergens. Avoid the bulk bin if you want to steer clear of allergens, especially gluten, peanuts, soy, dairy, and nuts (so sorry!) Besides the interchangeability of the scoops in the store, bulk items are often cross contaminated during processing, b/c bulk items are commonly processed w/ allergenic foods.

Thanksgiving Tip: How to get a gluten-free turkey

As you get to your local grocery or local farm to pick up your turkeys, remember that your gluten-free guests need a turkey that is gluten-free. "What?" There has been a common, yet declining practice of injecting the turkey or chicken with a broth or saline solution that contains gluten (in order to plump the bird). This is especially true for pre-prepared and pre-roasted birds. If your bird is pre-herbed, or has a seasoning package with it, pass on it. Seasoning mixes often contain gluten as well.

Make sure to double check with the processor of your turkey or chicken to make sure it is not injected with broth. Your best bet is to find a local farm who is in charge of the complete processing of the turkey, but there are more and more mainstream processors who are offering gluten-free turkeys.

Jenni-O Fresh Whole Turkey

Butterball Frozen Whole Turkey

Read more about the Most Surprising Places for Hidden Gluten