Including FD&C Yellow #5 & #6
Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.
What it is
FD&C Yellow #5 (also known as tartrazine) and FD&C Yellow #6 (also known as Sunset Yellow FCF) are synthetic food colorings. They are manufactured from petroleum.
Why it's used
These dyes are added to foods to give them yellow or orange colors. They are commonly found in candies, baked goods, beverages, and snack foods like chips and cereals.
Health notes
Both FD&C Yellow #5 and #6 are approved by the FDA as food additives. JECFA has evaluated both and set an acceptable daily intake. EFSA has also evaluated both and set an acceptable daily intake. There has been ongoing debate about whether these and other synthetic food dyes might contribute to hyperactivity in some children, though evidence remains mixed. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Yellow #5 and Yellow #6.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.