Tartrazine
The short version
A bright yellow synthetic azo dye widely used in beverages, candies, and sauces.
A synthetic yellow dye (Tartrazine / Yellow 5). It only adds colour, but studies linked dyes like this to hyperactivity in some children, so the EU makes products carry a warning label — and a few people get hives from it. That's why we flag it.
Where it comes from
Synthesized from petroleum derivatives. The azo class of dyes was developed in the late 19th century during the rise of synthetic chemistry.
How it's used
Used in soft drinks, candies, mustard, pickles, ice cream, and snack foods. Often combined with brilliant blue (E133) to create greens.
Safety profile
ADI of 7.5 mg/kg body weight. Linked to hyperactivity in some sensitive children in the Southampton study, leading to a mandatory EU warning label: 'May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.' Also documented as a rare trigger of urticaria in aspirin-sensitive individuals.
Physical & chemical properties
Bright yellow water-soluble powder. Stable to light, heat, and acid; sensitive to reducing agents.
Regulation worldwide
Permitted in the EU and US with warning label requirements in the EU. Banned or voluntarily withdrawn in several countries (Norway, Austria).
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.