Yellow No 6 Lake

Yellow No. 6 Lake is a food coloring made by combining the synthetic dye Yellow No. 6 (also known as Sunset Yellow FCF) with an insoluble metallic salt, typically aluminum hydroxide. This process creates a pigment that is insoluble in water, making it suitable for coloring foods with low moisture content or those where color bleeding needs to be prevented.

Manufacturers add Yellow No. 6 Lake to provide a yellow-orange color to various food products. It is commonly found in items like popcorn, candy, chocolate, and snack mixes, where its water-insoluble nature helps maintain color stability.

Yellow No. 6 Lake is an FDA-approved color additive for use in food. JECFA has evaluated Yellow No. 6 and set an acceptable daily intake. EFSA has also evaluated Yellow No. 6. There have been ongoing discussions regarding the potential effects of artificial food dyes, including Yellow No. 6, on children's behavior, with evidence being mixed. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, which includes Yellow No. 6, from food products.