Nutrient Fact Sheets
|
August 2, 2024

Yellow 6: Understanding Its Applications and Potential Health Impacts

Medically Reviewed by
Updated On
September 17, 2024

Yellow 6, also known as FD&C Yellow No. 6 and Sunset Yellow FCF is a food dye used in some foods, beverages, and other products to enhance color. However, food dyes are controversial due to their potential to cause health concerns. Food dye consumption, including Yellow 6 and several others, has dramatically increased in the United States since 1955.

This article explores food additives and their potential health impacts, aiming to inform doctors and consumers about Yellow 6. 

[signup]

What is Yellow 6?

Definition and Chemical Composition 

Yellow 6 is a synthetic dye used to color foods and drinks, such as desserts, soups, confectionery, cheeses, sauces, preserved fruits, and savory snacks. 

It's an orange color that's stable in heat, light, and acid but fades when exposed to sulfur dioxide (SO2) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Its chemical makeup is disodium 6-hydroxy-5-(4-sulfonatophenyl azo)-2-naphthalene-sulfonate.

Common Names and Synonyms

Yellow 6 is also called:

  • FD&C Yellow No. 6
  • Sunset Yellow FCF
  • E110

Historical Background and Development

Yellow 6 has a long history of coloring foods and drinks, enhancing the appearance of these products by adding yellow coloring. It has been approved for use in cosmetics, drugs, and foods. 

Yellow 6 is chemically created by diazotizing (chemical reaction) 4-aminobenzenesulfonic acid with sulfuric acid and sodium nitrite or hydrochloric acid and sodium nitrite. It may also be blended with other substances. 

Regulatory Approvals and Safety Reviews

Yellow 6 is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and the FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius.

Applications of Yellow 6

Uses in Food and Beverages

Examples of foods and drinks that may contain Yellow 6 include:

  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Energy drinks
  • Candied fruits
  • Breakfast cereals
  • Rice puddings, tapioca puddings, pastry fillings, baked goods mixes, chocolate products,
  • and other desserts
  • Dairy-based, frozen, and egg-based desserts
  • Fruit-based spreads and desserts
  • Sauces, jams, jellies, mustards, and other condiments
  • Candies, chewing gums, and snacks
  • Fish, egg, poultry, game, and seafood products
  • Sausage casings and cured and fermented meats
  • Cheeses
  • Weight loss products
  • Fermented vegetables
  • Flavored milk drinks
  • Some supplements, like fish oils
  • Pre-cooked pasta products
  • Broths and soups

Yellow 6 and other food dyes are used in the food industry to make products more appealing to consumers. 

Research shows that Yellow 6, Yellow 5, and Red 40 account for 90% of food dyes.

Uses in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Everyday cosmetic products that may contain Yellow 6 include:

  • Aftershaves
  • Anti-aging products
  • After-sun products and sunscreens, bronzers, and tanning lotions
  • Eye creams
  • Lotions, including some baby lotions, body washes, and cleansers
  • Shampoos, conditioners, soaps, bubble baths, and bath oils
  • Baby oils, body sprays, and other fragrances
  • Makeups and makeup removers
  • Powders
  • Hair color, hair sprays, and other hair products
  • Hand sanitizers
  • Nail products
  • Toothpaste

Check the ingredient list to determine if cosmetics and other personal care products contain Yellow 6 or other color additives. 

The FDA regulates cosmetic products in the United States, and Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and Council regulates cosmetics in the European Union (EU).

Uses in Pharmaceuticals and Medications

Examples of medications containing FD&C Yellow No. 6 include:

  • Acetaminophen and oxycodone hydrochloride
  • Adderall
  • Alprazolam
  • Acetaminophen and dextroamphetamine
  • Aspirin
  • Buprenorphine hydrochloride
  • Cephalexin
  • Clonazepam 
  • Cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride
  • Doxycycline hyclate 
  • Methocarbamol 
  • Oral ibuprofen suspension 

Children's medications, such as pain relievers, allergy medicines, and cough and cold tablets and syrups, often contain various food dyes.

Other Applications

In addition to foods, cosmetics, supplements, and medications, Yellow 6 is also present in some prenatal vitamins and children's products, like multivitamin tablets and chewable gummies.

Yellow 6 is also used as a dye for cotton, wool, paper, leather, and silk.

Safety and Health Concerns of Yellow 6

General Safety Overview

Guidelines for accepted daily intakes (ADIs) of Yellow 6 include:

  • FDA: 0-3.75 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of body weight daily
  • Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA): 0-4 mg/kg of body weight daily
  • The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): 0-4 mg/kg of body weight daily

Such organizations deem Yellow 6 safe when consumed in amounts within these guidelines. 

Potential Health Risks

There are several potential health risks linked to Yellow 6.

Allergies and Immunotoxicity

Allergic reactions may appear after consuming Yellow 6 in people sensitive to this food dye. Examples of potential reactions include:

  • Hives or facial rashes
  • Swelling of the eyes, lips, or face
  • Anaphylactic shock
  • Stomach cramping or abdominal pain
  • Indigestion
  • Belching
  • Retching and vomiting
  • Vascular purplish spots

However, these symptoms might only appear in people hypersensitive to food dyes.

According to the Environmental Working Group, Yellow 6 is low to moderately concerning regarding allergies and immunotoxicity (adverse immune system reaction). 

Organ System Toxicity (Non-Reproductive)

In large amounts, Yellow 6 has the potential for organ toxicity, respiratory tract irritation when breathed in, skin irritation, and eye irritation or damage. 

Endocrine Disruption

More research is needed regarding Yellow 6 and hormone disruption in humans. 

However, researchers classify Yellow 6 as a xenoestrogen, an estrogen-mimicking compound and endocrine-disrupting chemical

Yellow 5, another yellow food dye, has been shown to disrupt hormones and the normal course of puberty in rats. Research demonstrates that another food eye (Red 3) increased thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) responsiveness in men.

The European Food Safety Authority suggests that Yellow 6 has the potential to negatively affect testicular health in men.

Neurotoxicity

Studies found that Yellow 6 and other food dyes contain neurotoxic chemicals that may be linked to attention deficit in children, mental health problems, behavioral issues, and potentially autism. Additional studies confirm that Yellow 6 and other food dyes may increase hyperactivity and inattention among children. 

Researchers report that artificial food dyes often contain petroleum and are manufactured in chemical processes that sometimes include formaldehyde, hydroxides, aniline, sulfuric acids, arsenic, lead, or mercury. The FDA confirms that certifiable color additives are synthesized mainly from materials obtained from petroleum.

However, the FDA does not require manufacturers to test food dyes for developmental neurotoxicity. 

Developmental and Reproductive Toxicity

Yellow 6 might increase the risk of testicular and adrenal tumors, as studies found that this food dye causes such tumors in rats. The researchers suggest that food dyes may impair testicular functioning

The Environmental Working Group classifies Yellow 6 as possibly toxic to reproduction and development because animal studies show adverse effects at high doses. 

While human studies are lacking regarding the effects of Yellow 6 during pregnancy, the FDA has approved this food dye for pregnant women. 

However, some researchers voice concerns about potentially adverse neurodevelopmental and behavioral effects of food dye in children based on animal studies suggesting behavioral deficits in offspring after food dye exposure during pregnancy. 

Cancer Risks

Studies show that Yellow 6 contains benzidine, a cancer-causing substance permitted in low levels in food dyes. The researchers report that according to the FDA, ingesting benzidine increases cancer risks to 1 in 1 million people. 

The Environmental Working Group describes Yellow 6 as having a low risk of cancer, though the risk does exist. 

The Center for Science in the Public Interest reports that Yellow 6 adds unnecessary risk to the food supply because this food additive contains cancer-causing contaminants. 

Exposure and Risk Characterization

Common Exposure Sources

As discussed in the lists above, common exposure sources of Yellow 6 include:

  • Foods
  • Beverages
  • Cosmetics 
  • Medications
  • Vitamins
  • Other supplements

Check the ingredient label on such products to know if Yellow 6 is present.

Methods of Exposure Assessment

Studies have evaluated Yellow 6 exposure in the general population, particularly among pregnant women and children. Research demonstrates that artificial food color consumption was usually below the FDA and JECFA ADIs, though some kids and pregnant women consumed Red 3 at levels exceeding intake guidelines.

This research indicates that children are exposed to more food dyes than adults through over-the-counter medications and children's vitamins. The researchers found that the highest food dye exposure was from Red 40, Yellow 6, and Yellow 5. 

Risk Characterization Methods

Based on various research studies examining the potentially harmful effects of Yellow 6, the Environmental Working Group classifies Yellow 6 as a moderate food concern, mainly due to adverse neurobehavioral outcomes in kids. 

Methods of Analysis

Scientific techniques can detect and quantify Yellow 6 in foods, but simply reading the ingredient label on foods, drinks, supplements, and cosmetics alerts consumers about the presence of Yellow 6 in such products. 

Examples of laboratory methods used in safety evaluations include:

  • Spectrophotometric kinetic method
  • Simple detector UV-Vis/DAD
  • MS/MS detectors
  • Electrochemical detection
  • Tandem mass spectrometry
  • Membrane filtration
  • Liquid-liquid and solid-phase extraction techniques
  • UV-Vis spectrometry

Manufacturers aren't required to list the amounts of food dyes in products, just ingredients added. However, the FDA continually monitors reports of problems possibly related to color additives and can seize products found to be unsafe and those containing prohibited color additives. 

Natural Alternatives to Yellow 6

Natural yellow colorants have the potential to replace Yellow 6, though some may be less effective for coloring certain products. They're also typically more expensive. However, natural alternatives to Yellow 6 are likely safer. 

Examples of Natural Yellow Colorants

Examples of natural yellow colorants used in foods and consumer products include:

Researchers report that while the United Kingdom colors orange soda with carrot and pumpkin extracts, the United States uses Yellow 6 and Red 40. The researchers also note that Britain colors strawberry sundaes at McDonald's with strawberries, while the U.S. uses Red 40. 

Summary and Recommendations

While Yellow 6 is approved for use in foods, drinks, drugs, supplements, and cosmetics, it contains substances that may be harmful in large amounts.

To limit or avoid exposure to Yellow 6, choose whole foods over highly processed foods and read ingredient labels identifying Yellow 6 in commonly consumed products. Pick products without synthetic dyes, including organic foods and drinks or products containing natural coloring alternatives.

It's essential to be aware of potential risks, safe consumption levels (the lower, the better), and possible allergic reactions or other side effects linked to Yellow 6 and other synthetic food dyes. 

[signup]

Key Takeaways

  • Stay up-to-date about Yellow 6 and other food additives to make informed decisions about which foods, beverages, supplements, medications, and personal care items are safest, with the lowest risk of potential health concerns.
  • While Yellow 6 is FDA-approved, in large amounts, it may contribute to an array of health risks. Examples include allergic reactions, hormone disruption, neurotoxicity, cancer, reproductive issues, behavioral issues in kids, and other health concerns. 
  • It's vital to stay updated on new research and regulatory changes pertaining to Yellow 6 and other dyes commonly added to foods and other consumer products.

Yellow 6, also known as FD&C Yellow No. 6 and Sunset Yellow FCF, is a food dye used in some foods, beverages, and other products to enhance color. However, food dyes are sometimes discussed due to their potential to raise health concerns. Food dye consumption, including Yellow 6 and several others, has dramatically increased in the United States since 1955.

This article explores food additives and their potential health impacts, aiming to inform doctors and consumers about Yellow 6. 

[signup]

What is Yellow 6?

Definition and Chemical Composition 

Yellow 6 is a synthetic dye used to color foods and drinks, such as desserts, soups, confectionery, cheeses, sauces, preserved fruits, and savory snacks. 

It's an orange color that's stable in heat, light, and acid but fades when exposed to sulfur dioxide (SO2) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Its chemical makeup is disodium 6-hydroxy-5-(4-sulfonatophenyl azo)-2-naphthalene-sulfonate.

Common Names and Synonyms

Yellow 6 is also called:

  • FD&C Yellow No. 6
  • Sunset Yellow FCF
  • E110

Historical Background and Development

Yellow 6 has a long history of coloring foods and drinks, enhancing the appearance of these products by adding yellow coloring. It has been approved for use in cosmetics, drugs, and foods. 

Yellow 6 is chemically created by diazotizing (chemical reaction) 4-aminobenzenesulfonic acid with sulfuric acid and sodium nitrite or hydrochloric acid and sodium nitrite. It may also be blended with other substances. 

Regulatory Approvals and Safety Reviews

Yellow 6 is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and the FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius.

Applications of Yellow 6

Uses in Food and Beverages

Examples of foods and drinks that may contain Yellow 6 include:

  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Energy drinks
  • Candied fruits
  • Breakfast cereals
  • Rice puddings, tapioca puddings, pastry fillings, baked goods mixes, chocolate products,
  • and other desserts
  • Dairy-based, frozen, and egg-based desserts
  • Fruit-based spreads and desserts
  • Sauces, jams, jellies, mustards, and other condiments
  • Candies, chewing gums, and snacks
  • Fish, egg, poultry, game, and seafood products
  • Sausage casings and cured and fermented meats
  • Cheeses
  • Weight loss products
  • Fermented vegetables
  • Flavored milk drinks
  • Some supplements, like fish oils
  • Pre-cooked pasta products
  • Broths and soups

Yellow 6 and other food dyes are used in the food industry to make products more appealing to consumers. 

Research shows that Yellow 6, Yellow 5, and Red 40 account for 90% of food dyes.

Uses in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Everyday cosmetic products that may contain Yellow 6 include:

  • Aftershaves
  • Anti-aging products
  • After-sun products and sunscreens, bronzers, and tanning lotions
  • Eye creams
  • Lotions, including some baby lotions, body washes, and cleansers
  • Shampoos, conditioners, soaps, bubble baths, and bath oils
  • Baby oils, body sprays, and other fragrances
  • Makeups and makeup removers
  • Powders
  • Hair color, hair sprays, and other hair products
  • Hand sanitizers
  • Nail products
  • Toothpaste

Check the ingredient list to determine if cosmetics and other personal care products contain Yellow 6 or other color additives. 

The FDA regulates cosmetic products in the United States, and Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and Council regulates cosmetics in the European Union (EU).

Uses in Pharmaceuticals and Medications

Examples of medications containing FD&C Yellow No. 6 include:

  • Acetaminophen and oxycodone hydrochloride
  • Adderall
  • Alprazolam
  • Acetaminophen and dextroamphetamine
  • Aspirin
  • Buprenorphine hydrochloride
  • Cephalexin
  • Clonazepam 
  • Cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride
  • Doxycycline hyclate 
  • Methocarbamol 
  • Oral ibuprofen suspension 

Children's medications, such as pain relievers, allergy medicines, and cough and cold tablets and syrups, often contain various food dyes.

Other Applications

In addition to foods, cosmetics, supplements, and medications, Yellow 6 is also present in some prenatal vitamins and children's products, like multivitamin tablets and chewable gummies.

Yellow 6 is also used as a dye for cotton, wool, paper, leather, and silk.

Safety and Health Concerns of Yellow 6

General Safety Overview

Guidelines for accepted daily intakes (ADIs) of Yellow 6 include:

  • FDA: 0-3.75 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of body weight daily
  • Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA): 0-4 mg/kg of body weight daily
  • The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): 0-4 mg/kg of body weight daily

Such organizations consider Yellow 6 safe when consumed in amounts within these guidelines. 

Potential Health Risks

There are several potential health risks linked to Yellow 6.

Allergies and Immunotoxicity

Allergic reactions may appear after consuming Yellow 6 in people sensitive to this food dye. Examples of potential reactions include:

  • Hives or facial rashes
  • Swelling of the eyes, lips, or face
  • Anaphylactic shock
  • Stomach cramping or abdominal pain
  • Indigestion
  • Belching
  • Retching and vomiting
  • Vascular purplish spots

However, these symptoms might only appear in people hypersensitive to food dyes.

According to the Environmental Working Group, Yellow 6 is low to moderately concerning regarding allergies and immunotoxicity (adverse immune system reaction). 

Organ System Toxicity (Non-Reproductive)

In large amounts, Yellow 6 has the potential for organ toxicity, respiratory tract irritation when breathed in, skin irritation, and eye irritation or damage. 

Endocrine Disruption

More research is needed regarding Yellow 6 and hormone disruption in humans. 

However, researchers classify Yellow 6 as a xenoestrogen, an estrogen-mimicking compound and endocrine-disrupting chemical

Yellow 5, another yellow food dye, has been shown to disrupt hormones and the normal course of puberty in rats. Research demonstrates that another food dye (Red 3) increased thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) responsiveness in men.

The European Food Safety Authority suggests that Yellow 6 has the potential to negatively affect testicular health in men.

Neurotoxicity

Studies found that Yellow 6 and other food dyes contain neurotoxic chemicals that may be linked to attention deficit in children, mental health problems, behavioral issues, and potentially autism. Additional studies confirm that Yellow 6 and other food dyes may increase hyperactivity and inattention among children. 

Researchers report that artificial food dyes often contain petroleum and are manufactured in chemical processes that sometimes include formaldehyde, hydroxides, aniline, sulfuric acids, arsenic, lead, or mercury. The FDA confirms that certifiable color additives are synthesized mainly from materials obtained from petroleum.

However, the FDA does not require manufacturers to test food dyes for developmental neurotoxicity. 

Developmental and Reproductive Toxicity

Yellow 6 might increase the risk of testicular and adrenal tumors, as studies found that this food dye causes such tumors in rats. The researchers suggest that food dyes may impair testicular functioning

The Environmental Working Group classifies Yellow 6 as possibly toxic to reproduction and development because animal studies show adverse effects at high doses. 

While human studies are lacking regarding the effects of Yellow 6 during pregnancy, the FDA has approved this food dye for pregnant women. 

However, some researchers voice concerns about potentially adverse neurodevelopmental and behavioral effects of food dye in children based on animal studies suggesting behavioral deficits in offspring after food dye exposure during pregnancy. 

Cancer Risks

Studies show that Yellow 6 contains benzidine, a cancer-causing substance permitted in low levels in food dyes. The researchers report that according to the FDA, ingesting benzidine increases cancer risks to 1 in 1 million people. 

The Environmental Working Group describes Yellow 6 as having a low risk of cancer, though the risk does exist. 

The Center for Science in the Public Interest reports that Yellow 6 adds unnecessary risk to the food supply because this food additive contains cancer-causing contaminants. 

Exposure and Risk Characterization

Common Exposure Sources

As discussed in the lists above, common exposure sources of Yellow 6 include:

  • Foods
  • Beverages
  • Cosmetics 
  • Medications
  • Vitamins
  • Other supplements

Check the ingredient label on such products to know if Yellow 6 is present.

Methods of Exposure Assessment

Studies have evaluated Yellow 6 exposure in the general population, particularly among pregnant women and children. Research demonstrates that artificial food color consumption was usually below the FDA and JECFA ADIs, though some kids and pregnant women consumed Red 3 at levels exceeding intake guidelines.

This research indicates that children are exposed to more food dyes than adults through over-the-counter medications and children's vitamins. The researchers found that the highest food dye exposure was from Red 40, Yellow 6, and Yellow 5. 

Risk Characterization Methods

Based on various research studies examining the potentially harmful effects of Yellow 6, the Environmental Working Group classifies Yellow 6 as a moderate food concern, mainly due to adverse neurobehavioral outcomes in kids. 

Methods of Analysis

Scientific techniques can detect and quantify Yellow 6 in foods, but simply reading the ingredient label on foods, drinks, supplements, and cosmetics alerts consumers about the presence of Yellow 6 in such products. 

Examples of laboratory methods used in safety evaluations include:

  • Spectrophotometric kinetic method
  • Simple detector UV-Vis/DAD
  • MS/MS detectors
  • Electrochemical detection
  • Tandem mass spectrometry
  • Membrane filtration
  • Liquid-liquid and solid-phase extraction techniques
  • UV-Vis spectrometry

Manufacturers aren't required to list the amounts of food dyes in products, just ingredients added. However, the FDA continually monitors reports of problems possibly related to color additives and can seize products found to be unsafe and those containing prohibited color additives. 

Natural Alternatives to Yellow 6

Natural yellow colorants have the potential to replace Yellow 6, though some may be less effective for coloring certain products. They're also typically more expensive. However, natural alternatives to Yellow 6 are likely safer. 

Examples of Natural Yellow Colorants

Examples of natural yellow colorants used in foods and consumer products include:

Researchers report that while the United Kingdom colors orange soda with carrot and pumpkin extracts, the United States uses Yellow 6 and Red 40. The researchers also note that Britain colors strawberry sundaes at McDonald's with strawberries, while the U.S. uses Red 40. 

Summary and Recommendations

While Yellow 6 is approved for use in foods, drinks, drugs, supplements, and cosmetics, it contains substances that may be harmful in large amounts.

To limit or avoid exposure to Yellow 6, consider choosing whole foods over highly processed foods and read ingredient labels identifying Yellow 6 in commonly consumed products. Pick products without synthetic dyes, including organic foods and drinks or products containing natural coloring alternatives.

It's essential to be aware of potential risks, safe consumption levels (the lower, the better), and possible allergic reactions or other side effects linked to Yellow 6 and other synthetic food dyes. 

[signup]

Key Takeaways

  • Stay up-to-date about Yellow 6 and other food additives to make informed decisions about which foods, beverages, supplements, medications, and personal care items are safest, with the lowest risk of potential health concerns.
  • While Yellow 6 is FDA-approved, in large amounts, it may contribute to an array of health risks. Examples include allergic reactions, hormone disruption, neurotoxicity, cancer, reproductive issues, behavioral issues in kids, and other health concerns. 
  • It's vital to stay updated on new research and regulatory changes pertaining to Yellow 6 and other dyes commonly added to foods and other consumer products.
The information in this article is designed for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. This information should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting a doctor. Consult with a health care practitioner before relying on any information in this article or on this website.

Learn more

No items found.

Lab Tests in This Article

No lab tests!

Arnold, L. E., Lofthouse, N., & Hurt, E. (2012). Artificial food colors and attention-deficit/hyperactivity symptoms: Conclusions to dye for. Neurotherapeutics, 9(3), 599–609. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-012-0133-x

Axon, A., May, F., Gaughan, L., Williams, F., Blain, P., & Wright, M. (2012). Tartrazine and sunset yellow are xenoestrogens in a new screening assay to identify modulators of human oestrogen receptor transcriptional activity. Toxicology, 298(1-3), 40–51. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tox.2012.04.014

Bakthavachalu, P., Kannan, S. M., & Qoronfleh, M. W. (2020). Food color and autism: A meta-analysis. Advances in Neurobiology, 24, 481–504. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-30402-7_15

Bigman, S. (2024, May 30). The truth about fish oil supplements: Benefits, risks, and controversies. Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/the-truth-about-fish-oil-supplements-benefits-risks-and-controversies

Bradman, A., Castorina, R., Thilakaratne, R., Gillan, M., Pattabhiraman, T., Nirula, A., Marty, M., & Miller, M. D. (2022). Dietary exposure to united states food and drug administration-approved synthetic food colors in children, pregnant women, and women of childbearing age living in the united states. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(15), 9661. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159661

Bryant, A. (2024, May 24). The sweet benefits of eating chocolate. Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/benefits-of-eating-chocolate

Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. (2017, November 3). Color additives history. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/industry/color-additives/color-additives-history

Clinic, C. (2020, April 9). 9 safe, natural ways to color your food. Cleveland Clinic; Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/green-mac-n-cheese-anyone-9-easy-natural-ways-to-color-your-food

Cloyd, J. (2023, April 28). What is the difference between medical-grade supplements and over-the-counter supplements? Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/what-is-the-difference-between-medical-grade-supplements-and-over-the-counter-supplements

Cloyd, J. (2023b, July 7). Integrative approaches to reducing toxin exposure in everyday life. Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/integrative-approaches-to-reducing-toxin-exposure-in-everyday-life

EUR-Lex - 02008R1333-20231029 - EN - eur-lex. (2023). Europa.eu. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A02008R1333-20231029

EWG skin deep® | what is FD&C yellow no. 6 (CI 15985) lake. (2024). EWG. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/702445-FDC_Yellow_No_6_CI_15985_Lake/?__cf_chl_tk=bZx4Vj4egFNVLP47OVHMcEctg4ZuoY8AckRTksu7Ahg-1718850569-0.0.1.1-8532

FD&C yellow 6 food dye SDS (safety data sheet) | flinn scientific. (2014, March 25). Www.flinnsci.com. https://www.flinnsci.com/sds_843.3-fdc-yellow-6-food-dye/sds_843.3/

FD&C yellow no. 6 (inactive ingredient). (2024, January 19). Drugs.com. https://www.drugs.com/inactive/fd-c-yellow-no-6-249.html

Group, E.-E. W. (2024). EWG's food scores just took the work out of grocery shopping for me! Www.ewg.org. https://www.ewg.org/foodscores/ingredients/7378-ArtificialColorYellow6/

GSFA online food additive details for sunset yellow FCF. (2023). Www.fao.org. https://www.fao.org/gsfaonline/additives/details.html?id=124

Immunotoxicity - an overview | sciencedirect topics. (2014). Www.sciencedirect.com. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/immunotoxicity

Khakham, C. (2023, July 10). Exploring the relationship between food additives and cancer risk. Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/exploring-the-relationship-between-food-additives-and-cancer-risk

Kobylewski, S. (2010). Food dyes A rainbow of risks. https://www.cspinet.org/sites/default/files/attachment/food-dyes-rainbow-of-risks.pdf

Lehmkuhler, A., Mitchell , A. E., Miller , M., Bradman, A., & Castroina, R. (2020, September). Ertified food dyes in over the counter medicines and supplements marketed for children and pregnant women. Food and Chemical Toxicology. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278691520303896#tbl2

Mary Meck Higgins. (2015). Identifying foods that contain synthetic food dyes. https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/humannutrition/nutrition-topics/eatingwell-budget/meals-documents/IdentifyingFoodsThatContainSyntheticFoodDyes.pdf

Mindang, E. L. N., Awounfack, C. F., Ndinteh, D. T., Krause, R. W. M., & Njamen, D. (2022). Effects of tartrazine on some sexual maturation parameters in immature female Wistar rats. 

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(16), 10410. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610410

NCATS inxight drugs — FD&C YELLOW NO. 6. (n.d.). Drugs.ncats.io. https://drugs.ncats.io/drug/H77VEI93A8

Ntrallou, K., Gika, H., & Tsochatzis, E. (2020). Analytical and sample preparation techniques for the determination of food colorants in food matrices. Foods, 9(1), 58. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9010058

Paterni, I., Granchi, C., & Minutolo, F. (2016). Risks and benefits related to alimentary exposure to xenoestrogens. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 57(16), 3384–3404. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2015.1126547

Potera, C. (2010). DIET AND NUTRITION: The artificial food dye blues. Environmental Health Perspectives, 118(10). https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp.118-a428

Preston, J. (2023, June 5). The link between food colors and additives and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): How to test for food color and additive reactions. Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/the-link-between-food-colors-and-additives-and-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-how-to-test-for-food-color-and-additive-reactions

Products that contain FD&C yellow no. 6 (CI 15985) || skin deep® cosmetics database. (2024). EWG. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/browse/ingredients/702444-FDC_Yellow_No_6_CI_15985/

Shastay, A. (2023). Identifying color additives in regulated drug products. Home Healthcare Now, 41(5), 285–286. https://doi.org/10.1097/nhh.0000000000001197

PubChem. (n.d.). Sunset yellow FCF. Pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved June 25, 2024, from https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Sunset-Yellow-FCF#section=Uses 

Rohrig, B. (2015, October). Eating with your eyes: The chemistry of food colorings. American Chemical Society. https://www.acs.org/education/resources/highschool/chemmatters/past-issues/2015-2016/october-2015/food-colorings.html

Shastay, A. (2023b). Identifying color additives in regulated drug products. Home Healthcare Now, 41(5), 285–286. https://doi.org/10.1097/nhh.0000000000001197 

Stanford, J. (2024, February 19). The hidden perils of refined carbohydrates: What every healthcare professional needs to know. Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/the-hidden-perils-of-refined-carbohydrates-what-every-healthcare-professional-needs-to-know

Sunset yellow FCF - an overview | sciencedirect topics. (2014). Www.sciencedirect.com. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/sunset-yellow-fcf

Sweetnich, J. (2023, May 9). How to make sure your patients are getting enough vitamin C in their diet: Understanding testing, rdas, and the benefits of supplementation. Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/vitamin-c-101

Teeter, L. A. (2023, April 13). Using functional nutrition to address hormone imbalances. Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/using-functional-nutrition-to-address-hormone-imbalances

Weinberg, J. (2024, February 13). Allergic skin reactions: A functional medicine approach to identifying and treating root causes. Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/allergic-skin-reactions-a-functional-medicine-approach-to-identifying-and-treating-root-causes

Wopara, I., Modo, E. U., Mobisson, S. K., Adebayo, O. G., Umoren, E. B., O., O. B., Emmanuel, P. M., & Stephanie, O. U. (2021). Synthetic food dyes cause testicular damage via up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and down-regulation of FSH-R and TESK-1 gene expression. JBRA Assisted Reproduction, 25(3). https://doi.org/10.5935/1518-0557.20200097

Yoshimura, H. (2023, April 26). Complementary and integrative medicine approaches to oncology in gerontology. Rupa Health. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/complementary-and-integrative-medicine-approaches-to-oncology-in-gerontology

Order from 30+ labs in 20 seconds (DUTCH, Mosaic, Genova & More!)
We make ordering quick and painless — and best of all, it's free for practitioners.

Latest Articles

View more on Nutrient Fact Sheets
Subscribe to the magazine for expert-written articles straight to your inbox
Join the thousands of savvy readers who get root cause medicine articles written by doctors in their inbox every week!
Thanks for subscribing!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Are you a healthcare practitioner?
Thanks for subscribing!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Subscribe to the Magazine for free to keep reading!
Subscribe for free to keep reading, If you are already subscribed, enter your email address to log back in.
Thanks for subscribing!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Are you a healthcare practitioner?
Thanks for subscribing!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Trusted Source
Rupa Health
Medical Education Platform
Visit Source
Visit Source
American Cancer Society
Foundation for Cancer Research
Visit Source
Visit Source
National Library of Medicine
Government Authority
Visit Source
Visit Source
Journal of The American College of Radiology
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
National Cancer Institute
Government Authority
Visit Source
Visit Source
World Health Organization (WHO)
Government Authority
Visit Source
Visit Source
The Journal of Pediatrics
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
CDC
Government Authority
Visit Source
Visit Source
Office of Dietary Supplements
Government Authority
Visit Source
Visit Source
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
Government Authority
Visit Source
Visit Source
National Institutes of Health
Government Authority
Visit Source
Visit Source
Clinical Infectious Diseases
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Brain
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
The Journal of Rheumatology
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI)
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Journal of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Hepatology
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Kidney International
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Annals of Surgery
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Chest
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
The Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Blood
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Gastroenterology
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
The American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
The American Journal of Psychiatry
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Diabetes Care
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
The Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC)
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
The Journal of Clinical Oncology (JCO)
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Journal of Clinical Investigation (JCI)
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Circulation
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
JAMA Internal Medicine
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
PLOS Medicine
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Annals of Internal Medicine
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Nature Medicine
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
The BMJ (British Medical Journal)
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
The Lancet
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA)
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Pubmed
Comprehensive biomedical database
Visit Source
Visit Source
Harvard
Educational/Medical Institution
Visit Source
Visit Source
Cleveland Clinic
Educational/Medical Institution
Visit Source
Visit Source
Mayo Clinic
Educational/Medical Institution
Visit Source
Visit Source
The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM)
Peer Reviewed Journal
Visit Source
Visit Source
Johns Hopkins
Educational/Medical Institution
Visit Source
Visit Source

Hey practitioners! 👋 Join Dr. Chris Magryta and Dr. Erik Lundquist for a comprehensive 6-week course on evaluating functional medicine labs from two perspectives: adult and pediatric. In this course, you’ll explore the convergence of lab results across different diseases and age groups, understanding how human lab values vary on a continuum influenced by age, genetics, and time. Register Here! Register Here.

Hey practitioners! 👋 Join Dr. Terry Wahls for a 3-week bootcamp on integrating functional medicine into conventional practice, focusing on complex cases like Multiple Sclerosis. Learn to analyze labs through a functional lens, perform nutrition-focused physical exams, and develop personalized care strategies. Register Here.