Carnauba Wax And Coloring Includes: Yellow #5

Carnauba wax is a natural wax obtained from the leaves of the carnauba palm tree (Copernicia prunifera). Yellow #5, also known as tartrazine, is a synthetic food dye made from petroleum.

Carnauba wax is used as a glazing agent to provide shine and prevent stickiness, commonly found on candies, chewing gum, and baked goods. Yellow #5 is added to impart a yellow color to various foods, including beverages, desserts, and snacks.

Carnauba wax is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. Yellow #5 is an FDA-approved color additive. Both have been evaluated by JECFA, which has set acceptable daily intakes. Some research has explored a possible link between synthetic food dyes, including Yellow #5, and hyperactivity in some children; however, the FDA states that current evidence does not show a causal link for the general population. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Yellow #5.