FD&C Yellow No. 5 And FD&C Blue No. 1

FD&C Yellow No. 5 (also known as Tartrazine) and FD&C Blue No. 1 (also known as Brilliant Blue FCF) are synthetic color additives. They are chemically manufactured from petroleum and are used to give a yellow and blue color, respectively, to food products.

Manufacturers add these dyes to enhance the visual appeal of foods and beverages. They are commonly found in a wide range of products, including candies, processed snacks, soft drinks, and condiments like ketchup and mustard.

Both FD&C Yellow No. 5 and FD&C Blue No. 1 are approved by the FDA as color additives for use in food. JECFA has evaluated both and set acceptable daily intakes, and EFSA has also evaluated both. FD&C Yellow No. 5 is known to cause allergic reactions, such as hives or asthma, in a small number of sensitive individuals, particularly those also sensitive to aspirin. Some studies have suggested a possible link between synthetic food dyes, including these, and hyperactivity in some children, though the evidence is mixed and not conclusive. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, which includes FD&C Yellow No. 5 and FD&C Blue No. 1.