FD&C Yellow 5 And Red 40

FD&C Yellow 5 (Tartrazine) and Red 40 (Allura Red AC) are synthetic color additives produced from petroleum. They are chemically manufactured to provide vibrant yellow and red hues to food products.

These dyes are added to foods to enhance their visual appeal, restore color lost during processing, or create a desired color. They are commonly found in a wide range of processed foods such as gelatin desserts, candies, cakes, snack cakes, beverages, and cereals.

FD&C Yellow 5 and Red 40 are FDA-approved color additives. In April 2025, FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, which includes Red 40 and Yellow 5. Some studies have suggested a link between consumption of certain artificial food colors, including Yellow 5 and Red 40, and hyperactivity in some children. However, the evidence is mixed, and regulatory bodies continue to review the data. JECFA has evaluated both Yellow 5 and Red 40 and set acceptable daily intakes. EFSA has also evaluated these dyes.