Learn Glossary solvent processing aid

Activated Charcoal

Level 2Generally safeIn Winter's Dictionary

Activated Charcoal is a solvent processing aid — Removes impurities causing undesirable color, taste, or odor in liquids

Also: Activated Carbon

What it does

Removes impurities causing undesirable color, taste, or odor in liquids

Where you'll see it

Liquid food processing

What the research says

Can cause dust irritation to eyes and mucous membranes. FASEB recommended purity specifications to assure absence of cancer-causing hydrocarbons.

Benefits

Used medically to relieve intestinal discomfort, diarrhea, and counteract poisons

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: ASP
  • Notes: FASEB concluded not a hazard at current/future use levels

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): Used to remove impurities that cause undesirable color, taste, or odor in liquid