The reason that Heineken are removing the caramel color is due to concerns in the U.S. that the additive is potentially carcinogenic, according to the Daily Mail. This is controversial because it is precisely this coloring that gives Newcastle Brown its distinctive appearance. The coloring of concern is 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI). The chemical, as well as a by-product of fermentation, is found in roasted foods, grilled meats, coffee and in types of caramel coloring produced with ammonia-based processes.
The call for the removal of the ingredient has come from U.S. consumer groups, including the Center for Science in the Public Interest. As a replacement for caramel, the Dutch drinks empire, who acquired the Newcastle Brown brand seven years ago, is planning to use roasted malts to re-create the distinctive brown color of the beer.
The change has angered the people in the town of Newcastle, where beer originated. According to a report on the BBC, the inhabitants of the city are convinced that the taste of the brew will alter. This is despite assurances from Heineken that no one will notice any difference.
To add more to the issue, The Daily Telegraph reports that the European Union has, on two separate occasions, determined that the coloring is safe. Moreover, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also declared that there are no concerns with the coloring.
Newcastle Brown was first issued in 1927. It is associated with the “Geordie” area of the U.K., around the cities of Newcastle and Gateshead. Originally a regional ale, it has increasingly become popular worldwide. Following Heineken’s purchase, the beer now sells in higher quantities in the U.S. than it does in the U.K. One of the ironies is that Newcastle Brown Ale is perceived in the U.K. as a working person’s tipple; however, worldwide, it is increasingly seen as a trendy drink. In the U.S. the beer has been featured in shows as diverse as The Big Bang Theory and House of Cards, as well as appearing in the movie Taken.
