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Yellow 5

Also known as: FD&C Yellow No. 5, Yellow 5, E102, Tartrazine

Overview

Tartrazine, also known as FD&C Yellow No. 5 or E102, is a synthetic azo dye widely used as a colorant in foods, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and supplements. It is not a naturally occurring substance and is primarily used to impart a yellow color. While generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory bodies like the FDA at approved levels, concerns exist regarding potential neurobehavioral effects, particularly in children, and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Tartrazine is water-soluble and stable under most conditions, making it a common choice in processed foods. Research indicates possible interactions with neurotransmitter systems, but the clinical relevance of these interactions is not fully understood. It is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and metabolized in the colon.

Benefits

Tartrazine is used solely as a colorant and has no recognized health benefits. There are no primary or secondary health effects associated with its consumption. Consequently, there are no population-specific benefits or clinically significant effects related to its use.

How it works

Tartrazine functions as a colorant and does not have a direct physiological mechanism of action. However, in vitro and animal studies suggest potential interactions with neurotransmitter systems, including serotonergic, dopaminergic, and opioid receptors. These interactions are not well-established in humans and their clinical significance remains unclear. Tartrazine is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and undergoes metabolism in the colon, but these processes do not contribute to any known health benefits.

Side effects

While generally considered safe at approved levels, Tartrazine can cause several side effects, particularly in sensitive individuals. Common side effects include allergic reactions such as urticaria and asthma. Evidence suggests that Tartrazine may contribute to behavioral changes in children, even at doses near or above typical intake levels. Rare side effects include severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis and, in vitro, DNA damage at high concentrations. Individuals with known hypersensitivity to azo dyes should avoid Tartrazine. Children, pregnant women, and individuals with thyroid disorders may be more susceptible to adverse effects. No significant drug interactions have been reported.

Dosage

As Tartrazine is a colorant without therapeutic effects, there is no minimum effective or optimal dosage range. The FDA has established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 5 mg/kg body weight/day. This value represents the maximum amount considered safe for daily consumption over a lifetime. Tartrazine is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and metabolized in the colon. There are no required cofactors for its metabolism or activity.

FAQs

Is Yellow 5 safe for consumption?

Yellow 5 is generally considered safe at FDA-approved levels. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or behavioral changes, particularly children. It's essential to be aware of potential sensitivities.

Does Yellow 5 have any health benefits?

No, Yellow 5 is a synthetic colorant used solely to impart color to food and supplements. It does not offer any nutritional or health benefits.

Can Yellow 5 cause hyperactivity in children?

Research suggests that Yellow 5 and other synthetic dyes may contribute to hyperactivity and behavioral changes in some children, even at low doses. Parents should monitor their children's behavior and consider dietary changes if concerns arise.

Are there any alternatives to Yellow 5?

Yes, natural colorants like beta-carotene, turmeric, and annatto can be used as alternatives to Yellow 5. These natural options may be preferable for individuals seeking to avoid synthetic additives.

Who should avoid Yellow 5?

Individuals with known allergies to azo dyes should avoid Yellow 5. Additionally, parents of children with behavioral issues and pregnant women may want to limit their exposure to this additive.

Research Sources

https://www.amenclinics.com/blog/hidden-dangers-of-yellow-dye-5-brain-behavior-and-health/ – This blog post from Amen Clinics discusses the potential dangers of Yellow Dye 5, focusing on its impact on brain function, behavior, and overall health. It highlights concerns about neurobehavioral effects, particularly in children, and suggests that the dye may exacerbate existing behavioral issues.
https://www.cspinet.org/sites/default/files/attachment/Dyes_Fact_sheet_California_3.8.2021.pdf – This fact sheet from the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) provides an overview of the risks associated with food dyes, including Yellow 5. It summarizes research indicating potential links between synthetic food dyes and behavioral problems in children, and advocates for stricter regulations on their use.
https://oehha.ca.gov/media/dockets/19884/19966-comments_from_21_organizations/associations_and_31_researchers/health_professionals/dyes_oehha_draft_report_comments_from_21_organizations_and_31_researchers_and_health_practitioners.pdf – This document contains comments from various organizations, researchers, and health professionals regarding the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) draft report on food dyes. The comments reflect concerns about the potential health effects of dyes like Yellow 5, particularly in relation to neurobehavioral outcomes in children.
https://www.healthline.com/health/yellow-5 – This Healthline article provides a general overview of Yellow 5, including its uses, potential side effects, and safety considerations. It notes that while generally considered safe, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or behavioral changes, particularly children.
https://oehha.ca.gov/media/downloads/risk-assessment/report/healthefftsassess041621.pdf – This report from the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) assesses the health effects of food dyes, including Yellow 5. The report concludes that FD&C synthetic dyes, including Yellow 5, cause or exacerbate neurobehavioral problems in children. Behavioral effects observed at doses near typical intake (0.08–0.11 mg/kg/day).