Yellows 5 & 6 And Other Color Added

Yellow 5 (Tartrazine) and Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow FCF) are synthetic color additives. They are produced from petroleum and are designed to impart vibrant yellow and orange-yellow hues to foods. "Other Color Added" refers to additional synthetic or natural colors that may be included.

These color additives are used by manufacturers to enhance the visual appeal of food products, making them more attractive to consumers. They are commonly found in baked goods, dessert mixes, snack cakes, and other processed foods where a consistent and bright color is desired.

Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 are approved by the FDA for use as color additives in food. JECFA has evaluated both Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 and set acceptable daily intakes. EFSA has also evaluated these colors. There has been debate regarding a possible link between synthetic food colors, including Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, and hyperactivity in some children; however, evidence remains mixed. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, from food products.