Blue 1 Lake And Yellow 6 Lake

Blue 1 Lake and Yellow 6 Lake are synthetic color additives. They are pigments made by combining the synthetic dyes Blue 1 (Brilliant Blue FCF) and Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow FCF) with an insoluble material, typically aluminum hydroxide. This process creates a 'lake' pigment, which is stable and does not dissolve in water.

These color additives are used by manufacturers to add blue and orange-yellow colors to foods. Lakes are often preferred in products with low water content, fats, or where color stability and non-bleeding are important. They are commonly found in baking decorations, dessert toppings, frostings, and confectionery.

Blue 1 and Yellow 6 are FDA-approved color additives for use in food. JECFA has evaluated both Blue 1 and Yellow 6 and set acceptable daily intakes; EFSA has also evaluated them. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, which includes Blue 1 and Yellow 6. Concerns have been raised about a possible link between synthetic food colors and hyperactivity in some children; however, the FDA states there is no conclusive evidence that these color additives cause hyperactivity in the general population, though some children may be sensitive.