Artificial Color FD&C Yellow 6
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What it is
FD&C Yellow 6 is a synthetic food coloring. It is a petroleum-based dye, meaning it is made from chemicals derived from crude oil. It is produced through chemical synthesis.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add FD&C Yellow 6 to give foods an orange-yellow color. It is commonly found in a wide range of processed foods and beverages, including candies, snacks, desserts, and soft drinks.
Health notes
FD&C Yellow 6 is an FDA-approved color additive for use in food. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated this additive and set an acceptable daily intake. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also evaluated it. Some studies have suggested a possible link between synthetic food dyes, including Yellow 6, and hyperactivity in some children, though evidence is mixed and more research is ongoing. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Yellow 6.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.