Yellow #6 And Red #40

Yellow #6 (Sunset Yellow FCF) and Red #40 (Allura Red AC) are synthetic food dyes made from petroleum. They are produced through chemical synthesis to create vibrant colors.

Manufacturers add these dyes to provide red, orange, and yellow coloring to a wide range of foods and beverages. They are commonly found in soda, candy, yogurt, and sweetened drink mixes.

Both Yellow #6 and Red #40 are approved food additives by the FDA. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, which includes Red #40 and Yellow #6. There has been ongoing discussion about a possible link between synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity in some children, though scientific evidence on this topic is mixed. JECFA has evaluated both dyes and set an acceptable daily intake for each.