FD&C Yellow #5 Lake
Tartrazine is a synthetic azo dye approved by FDA but linked to hyperactivity in some children (Southampton study) and rare hypersensitivity reactions. EU requires warning label: 'May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.' FDA mandates declaration by name.
What it is
Aluminum lake form of FD&C Yellow No. 5 (tartrazine, E102); insoluble pigment created by precipitating the dye onto an aluminum substrate.
Synthetic azo color used to color foods, especially fat-based or low-moisture products where water-soluble dyes don't disperse well.
Why it's flagged
- EU-mandated warning label for children's hyperactivity
- rare hypersensitivity reactions including urticaria
- must be declared by name on FDA labels (21 CFR 74.705)
What regulators actually say
"The color additive FD&C Yellow No. 5 may be safely used for coloring foods generally..."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as color additive subject to certification (21 CFR 74.705); must be declared by name
European Union — EFSA
Permitted as E102 with ADI 7.5 mg/kg bw and mandatory child-attention warning under EU Regulation 1333/2008
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app