Yellow 5 And Brominated Vegetable Oil
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What it is
Yellow 5, also known as Tartrazine, is a synthetic yellow food coloring. Brominated vegetable oil (BVO) is a vegetable oil that has had bromine added to it. BVO was used to keep citrus flavor oils evenly distributed in beverages.
Why it's used
Yellow 5 is used to add a bright yellow color to a variety of foods and drinks. BVO was used as an emulsifier and stabilizer, particularly in citrus-flavored beverages, to prevent separation of ingredients. Yellow 5 is found in candies, baked goods, and beverages. BVO was most commonly found in soft drinks.
Health notes
Yellow 5 is an approved food additive in the US. Some studies have suggested a link between Yellow 5 and hyperactivity in children, though evidence is mixed and regulatory bodies have not established a causal link. The FDA announced a plan in April 2025 to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Yellow 5, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply. Brominated vegetable oil (BVO) was revoked by the FDA in July 2024 and is no longer permitted in food.
Allergen info
Yellow 5 is not derived from major allergens. BVO is derived from vegetable oil, which is not a major allergen. Neither ingredient contains gluten.