Tartrazine
Also known as: E102, Yellow 5, Yellow number 5, Yellow no 5, Yellow no5
EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 mandates a warning label on foods containing tartrazine stating it 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children,' following the McCann/Southampton 2007 study. EFSA also identifies intolerance reactions in sensitive individuals (skin reactions; possible aspirin cross-reactivity).
What it is
Synthetic azo dye (lemon-yellow color); also called FD&C Yellow No. 5. E-number E102.
Yellow coloring agent in beverages, candies, condiments, and processed foods.
Why it's flagged
- EU-mandated child hyperactivity/attention warning label
- Documented intolerance/skin reactions in sensitive individuals
- Possible cross-reactivity with aspirin sensitivity
- Many candy/snack categories are heavily child-targeted
What regulators actually say
"The Southampton study provided limited evidence that the mixtures of additives tested had a small effect on the activity and attention of some children. Additives tested included Tartrazine (E102)..."
"Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008...Annex V provides additives labelling information for certain food colours [requiring 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children']."
"Tartrazine may bring about intolerance reactions – such as irritations to the skin – in a small part of the population."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
FDA-approved as FD&C Yellow No. 5; certified in 21 CFR 74.705; mandatory ingredient label declaration
European Union — EFSA
Permitted with mandatory warning label per Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 Annex V; ADI 7.5 mg/kg bw/day
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