Authority source
Safety basis: EFSA
EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) assessment
Tartrazine
Yellow 5E 102C.I. 19140
Colorant
Tartrazine is a bright yellow food dye used to color foods and drinks. It's made from coal tar and is often used in candies, baked goods, and soft drinks.
What it is
Tartrazine is a synthetic organic compound derived from coal tar, used as a food dye.
Found in
candies, baked goods, soft drinks, ice cream, and some medications
The concern
Potential link to hyperactivity in children and environmental concerns.
Legal status
Authorized for use in foods and cosmetics in the EU and US, but subject to specific labeling requirements.
Context-dependent
Tartrazine has been linked to hyperactivity in some children, and there are concerns about its potential impact on the environment.
Evidence & sources
Article / explainer
Article / explainer
No highly relevant article explainer found yet.
Video explainer
The Truth on Artificial Food Coloring! #tartrazine #food #science #health #cleanfood #children
Video
Abby G, PhD
Watch videoCommunity questions
Community questions
Community discussions are not used as safety evidence and no highly relevant discussion is shown for this ingredient.
Related ingredient guides
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Last updated: June 6, 2026