FD&C Yellow #5 And FD&C Blue #1

FD&C Yellow #5 (Tartrazine) and FD&C Blue #1 (Brilliant Blue FCF) are synthetic color additives. These are azo dyes, meaning they contain an azo group, and are manufactured from petroleum.

These dyes are added to foods to give them a vibrant, consistent color. They are commonly found in a wide range of processed foods and beverages, including candies, soft drinks, baked goods, and some pickled products.

FD&C Yellow #5 and FD&C Blue #1 are approved by the FDA for use as color additives in food. JECFA has evaluated both dyes and set an acceptable daily intake. EFSA has also evaluated both. There has been mixed evidence regarding a potential link between synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity in some children. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, which includes FD&C Yellow #5 and FD&C Blue #1.