Blue 1 And Yellow 5

Blue 1 (also known as Brilliant Blue FCF) and Yellow 5 (also known as Tartrazine) are synthetic food colorings. They are manufactured from petroleum-based chemicals.

These dyes are added to foods to create blue, yellow, or green (when mixed) colors. They are commonly found in candies, beverages, baked goods, and dairy products like ice cream.

Both Blue 1 and Yellow 5 are approved by the FDA as food additives. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Blue 1 and Yellow 5. JECFA has evaluated both Blue 1 and Yellow 5 and set an acceptable daily intake for each. EFSA has also evaluated both dyes. Some research has explored a possible link between synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity in some children, but the evidence is mixed and not conclusive for the general population. A small number of individuals may experience sensitivity reactions to Yellow 5, such as hives or asthma.