Charcoal is used in food to colour it black and for its supposed health benefits. Activated charcoal is used as a food ingredient. This is typically made from bamboo or coconut shell. It gives food an earthy, smoky taste and the black colouring gives the food an exotic, fashionable appearance. Chefs and food retailers that have pioneered the use of charcoal in food include Ferran Adrià, Burger King, René Redzepi, Simon Rogan and Waitrose.