Us FD&C Yellow #5 & #6

FD&C Yellow #5 (Tartrazine) and FD&C Yellow #6 (Sunset Yellow FCF) are synthetic color additives. They are petroleum-derived and produced through chemical synthesis.

These dyes are added to foods to impart yellow and orange-yellow colors. They are commonly found in beverages, candies, baked goods, snacks, and desserts to enhance visual appeal.

FD&C Yellow #5 and #6 are approved by the FDA as color additives for use in food. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, which includes these two colors. Some research suggests a possible link between synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity in some children, but the evidence is mixed and not all studies have confirmed this effect. Both JECFA and EFSA have evaluated these dyes and established acceptable daily intakes.