Pina Colada Contains Yellow 5 & Yellow 6

Yellow 5 (also known as Tartrazine) and Yellow 6 (also known as Sunset Yellow FCF) are synthetic yellow food colorings. They are derived from petroleum and are manufactured through chemical processes. These colorings are added to foods to give them a bright yellow hue.

Manufacturers add Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 to provide or enhance the yellow color in a variety of food products. They are commonly found in beverages, baked goods, candies, dairy products like ice cream, and snack foods. Their stability and vibrant color make them popular choices for food coloring.

Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 are approved food additives in the United States. The FDA has evaluated these colorings. Some studies have suggested a possible link between artificial food dyes, including Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, and increased hyperactivity in some children, though evidence is mixed and not conclusive. The FDA continues to permit their use, but requires a warning statement on products containing Yellow 5 regarding potential allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also evaluated these colorants. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, though a timeline for this phase-out has not been set.