Yellow No. 5-6
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What it is
Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine) and Yellow No. 6 (Sunset Yellow FCF) are synthetic food colorings. They are produced from petroleum and are used to impart a yellow or orange-yellow hue to foods and beverages.
Why it's used
These dyes are added to make foods more visually appealing or to restore color lost during processing. They are commonly found in products like soda, candy, chewing gum, baked goods, and snack foods.
Health notes
Both Yellow No. 5 and Yellow No. 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 Yellow No. 5 and Yellow No. 6. There has been debate about a possible link between synthetic food dyes, including Yellow No. 5 and Yellow No. 6, and hyperactivity in some children; scientific evidence on this link is mixed. JECFA has evaluated both Yellow No. 5 and Yellow No. 6 and has set an acceptable daily intake for each. EFSA has also evaluated these dyes.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.
Products containing Yellow No. 5-6
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Original Dark Western Trail Mix High Energy Snacks, Original Dark
500kcal
13.3Protein
33.3Fat
43.3Carbs