Activated Carbon
This is what the ingredient is.
Activated carbon (activated charcoal) is a highly porous form of carbon used for purification and decolorization.
Here is why it shows up on the label.
Used to purify water, decolorize sugar, and remove off-flavors in food processing. Also sold as dietary supplement.
Here is what food agencies say.
FDA GRAS for processing use. Food-grade versions approved. Used therapeutically for poisoning.
Here is what research has found.
Effective adsorbent for impurities. Long use history in food and pharmaceutical industries. Safety well-established.
Here are a few things worth knowing.
Processing aid removed from final product. As supplement, can interfere with medication absorption. Not for regular consumption.
Sources
- FDA CFR 21
- USP Monograph
- JECFA Evaluation
How to read this page
We publish plain facts about this ingredient so a label is easier to read. This is not medical advice, and it is not a recommendation to buy, avoid, or use anything. For a personal health question, talk with a clinician who knows your history.