Yellows 5 And 6

Yellow 5 (also known as Tartrazine) and Yellow 6 (also known as Sunset Yellow FCF) are synthetic yellow food colorings. They are produced from petroleum and are among the most widely used synthetic color additives in the United States.

These artificial colors are added to foods to provide a bright yellow hue, making products more visually appealing. They are commonly found in baked goods, candies, beverages, snacks, and dessert mixes.

In the U.S., Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 are approved food additives. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase these dyes out of the U.S. food supply. Some studies have suggested a link between synthetic food dyes like Yellow 5 and increased hyperactivity in some children, though the evidence is mixed and not conclusive. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated these colorings.