Disclaimer: This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and may change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
Tartrazine
E102 | INS 102
Names & Identifiers
- E Number
- E102
- INS Number
- 102
- CAS Number
- 1934-21-0
- Scientific Name
- trisodium (4E)-5-oxo-1-(4-sulfonatophenyl)-4-[(4-sulfonatophenyl)hydrazinylidene]-3-pyrazolecarboxylate
- Japanese Name
- タートラジン
- Also Known As
- Yellow 5, FD&C Yellow No. 5, CI 19140
Regulation Status by Country
European Union
Status: approved | Max level: varies by food category mg/kg
Must carry warning: 'May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children'
View EFSA Opinion →United States
Status: approved | Certified color additive
Requires batch certification by FDA
Japan
Status: approved | Category: 指定添加物
Australia / New Zealand
Status: approved | Code: 102
Canada
Status: approved
What is Tartrazine?
Classification
Function: colour
Type: synthetic
Source: azo dye
How It's Made
Method: chemical synthesis
Synthesized by diazotization of sulfanilic acid followed by coupling with 4,5-dihydro-5-oxo-1-(4-sulfophenyl)-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxylic acid.
Uses Beyond Food
- Cosmetics: Used in hair dyes and other cosmetic products.
- Pharmaceutical: Used as a colorant in tablets and capsules.
- Industrial: Used in textile dyeing and printing.
Commonly Found In
Tartrazine is typically used in:
Note: This list shows typical product categories and may vary by brand and region. Always check product labels for actual ingredients.
Safety Evaluations (Official)
ADI = Acceptable Daily Intake (mg per kg of body weight per day)
ADI in Everyday Terms
For a 60 kg adult, the JECFA ADI of 7.5 mg/kg bw/day equals approximately 450 mg per day.
This is roughly equivalent to:
- ~18 servings of colored candy (50g) (typical: ~25 mg per serving)
- ~15 cans of yellow-colored soft drink (355ml) (typical: ~30 mg per serving)
Research & Official Documents
Official evaluations and scientific research:
Search research databases:
Regulatory History
View Full Timeline →Key regulatory events and safety evaluations over time.
Tartrazine approved for use in foods in the USA.
Tartrazine listed as certified color additive FD&C Yellow No. 5 under Color Additives Amendment.
FDA required specific labeling of tartrazine due to reports of allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly those with aspirin sensitivity.
Southampton study published in The Lancet suggesting link between artificial colors (including tartrazine) and hyperactivity in children.
EFSA reviewed Southampton study, concluded evidence does not warrant revision of ADI but noted some children may show sensitivity.
EU mandated warning label on foods containing tartrazine and other azo dyes: 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children'.
EFSA re-evaluated tartrazine (E102), reduced ADI from 7.5 to 7.5 mg/kg bw/day after comprehensive review of toxicological data.
California Assembly Bill introduced to ban tartrazine and other synthetic dyes in foods (not enacted).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tartrazine (E102)?
Tartrazine (E102) is a colour used in food products. It is synthetic and azo dye. A synthetic lemon yellow azo dye not found in nature.
What is the ADI for Tartrazine?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Tartrazine is 0–7.5 mg/kg bw/day as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.
What foods contain Tartrazine?
Tartrazine is used in various food categories including Other confectionery, Cider and perry. It is used as a colour in these products.
Is Tartrazine the same as Yellow 5?
Yes, Tartrazine is also known as Yellow 5, FD&C Yellow No. 5, CI 19140. These are different names for the same substance.
Related Additives
Other colours in our database: