Artificial Colors: FD&C Yellow No. 6

FD&C Yellow No. 6 is a synthetic food coloring, also known as Sunset Yellow FCF. It is manufactured from petroleum-based raw materials. This dye is used to impart an orange-yellow color to various food products.

Manufacturers add FD&C Yellow No. 6 to enhance the visual appeal of foods, making them more attractive to consumers. It is commonly found in a wide range of processed foods, including snacks like chips and pretzels, candies, and baked goods such as cookies and biscuits.

FD&C Yellow No. 6 is an FDA-approved color additive for use in food. Concerns have been raised regarding a possible link between synthetic food dyes, including Yellow No. 6, and hyperactivity in some children; however, the FDA states that current scientific evidence does not establish a causal link for the general population. JECFA has evaluated FD&C Yellow No. 6 and set an acceptable daily intake. EFSA has also evaluated this additive. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Yellow No. 6.