Yelow 5
What is Yelow 5?
Yellow 5, also known as Tartrazine, is a synthetic food coloring agent. It is manufactured from petroleum. Its purpose is to give foods a bright yellow color.
Is Yelow 5 vegan?
Yelow 5 is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Yelow 5 a major allergen?
Not a major allergen.
What is Yelow 5 used for?
Manufacturers add Yellow 5 to make foods more visually appealing.
Is Yelow 5 safe?
Yellow 5 is an FDA-approved color additive.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add Yellow 5 to make foods more visually appealing. It is commonly found in soft drinks, candies, cereals, baked goods, and some dairy products.
Health notes
Yellow 5 is an FDA-approved color additive. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Yellow 5. Some studies have suggested a possible link between synthetic food dyes, including Yellow 5, and hyperactivity in some children, though the evidence is mixed. JECFA has evaluated Yellow 5 and set an acceptable daily intake. EFSA has also evaluated it and concluded that the available data do not establish a causal link between exposure to Yellow 5 and behavioral effects.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.
Foods that contain Yelow 5
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The Quaker Oats Co./gatorade-Van Camp
Lime Cucumber Flavored Thirst Quencher, Lime Cucumber
High in added sugars — 42% DV per serving
22kcal
0Protein
0Fat
—Carbs
Post Consumer Brands, LLC
Sweetened Corn & Oat Cereal, Sweetened Corn & Oat Cereal
400kcal
3.3Protein
3.3Fat
86.7Carbs
Meijer, Inc.
Plain Sprinkles Stripes Ing/Nut Donut Cake, Plain
High in sodium — 21% DV per serving
High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving
370kcal
5Protein
16Fat
52Carbs
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