Caramel color is a food coloring made by heating sugar, which results in a rich brown hue. It is commonly used in various food and beverage products, such as soft drinks, sauces, and baked goods, to enhance their appearance and provide a consistent color. There are different types of caramel color, classified based on their production methods and properties. These include Class I (plain caramel), Class II (sulfite caramel), Class III (ammonia caramel), and Class IV (sulfite ammonia caramel). Each type has unique characteristics and applications in the food industry.