Yellow 6 And Yellow 6 Lake

Yellow 6 is a synthetic color additive, also known as FD&C Yellow No. 6. It is an azo dye, meaning it contains an azo group, and is made from petroleum. Yellow 6 Lake is an insoluble form of the same dye, created by combining the dye with a metallic salt, usually aluminum hydroxide.

Yellow 6 is used to give foods an orange-yellow color. It is commonly found in a wide range of processed foods, including candies, baked goods, beverages, cereals, and dairy products. Yellow 6 Lake is often used in coatings, dry mixes, and fat-based products where a water-soluble dye might bleed or fade.

Yellow 6 is an FDA-approved color additive for use in food. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Yellow 6. JECFA has evaluated Yellow 6 and set an acceptable daily intake. EFSA has also evaluated its safety. Some studies have suggested a link between certain artificial food colors, including Yellow 6, and hyperactivity in some children, particularly those who are sensitive to these dyes. However, the evidence on this link is mixed, and not all scientific bodies agree on the extent of the risk. It is not considered to cause disease outright.