FD&C Yellow #6 & FD&C Yellow #5

FD&C Yellow #5 (Tartrazine) and FD&C Yellow #6 (Sunset Yellow FCF) are synthetic color additives. They are petroleum-derived dyes used to impart a yellow-orange color to foods and beverages.

These dyes are added to foods to enhance their visual appeal, providing a yellow or orange hue. They are commonly found in sodas, crackers, candy, baked goods, and other processed foods.

FD&C Yellow #5 and FD&C Yellow #6 are approved food additives by the FDA. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Yellow 5 and Yellow 6. While generally recognized as safe by the FDA, there have been mixed findings in studies regarding their potential link to hyperactivity in some children. JECFA has evaluated both dyes and set acceptable daily intakes. EFSA has also evaluated these dyes and concluded that the available data do not establish a causal link between exposure to these colors and behavioral effects in the general population, but noted that some studies suggest a possible link in sensitive children.