Zinc Gluconate And Yellow 6

Zinc gluconate is a zinc salt of gluconic acid, often produced through fermentation, used as a source of the essential mineral zinc. Yellow 6, also known as Sunset Yellow FCF, is a synthetic orange-yellow dye made from petroleum.

Zinc gluconate is added to foods and supplements as a nutrient to provide zinc, commonly found in electrolyte solutions and fortified products. Yellow 6 is used to add an orange-yellow color to a wide range of foods, including beverages, desserts, and candies.

Zinc gluconate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA as a source of zinc. Yellow 6 is an FDA-approved color additive. JECFA has evaluated both ingredients, setting an acceptable daily intake for Yellow 6 and evaluating zinc compounds. While some studies have explored a possible link between synthetic food dyes like Yellow 6 and hyperactivity in children, the evidence is mixed. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Yellow 6.