Group: Colors
Description: E102, also known as Tartrazine, is a synthetic yellow azo dye used as a food coloring agent. It is not derived from animal sources, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Tartrazine imparts a bright yellow color to various food products, including soft drinks, candies, ice cream, baked goods, and processed snacks, as well as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
Side Effects:
Some individuals might experience side effects or allergic reactions to tartrazine, such as:
Skin reactions: In rare cases, tartrazine can cause skin reactions like itching, hives, or rashes in sensitive individuals.
Respiratory issues: Some people might experience respiratory symptoms like wheezing or shortness of breath if they are sensitive to tartrazine.
Hyperactivity: There has been some debate about whether tartrazine and other artificial food colors might contribute to hyperactivity in children. While some studies have suggested a possible link, the evidence is not conclusive, and more research is needed.
Maximum Daily Intake:
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for tartrazine, as determined by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), is 7.5 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. The ADI is an estimate of the amount of a food additive that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.
Dietary Restrictions:
As tartrazine is a synthetic dye and not derived from animal sources, it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans. However, due to potential side effects or allergic reactions in some individuals, those who are sensitive to tartrazine or have been advised to avoid azo dyes should check food labels for E102 or tartrazine and avoid products containing this additive.
Banned in some countries:
Yes, tartrazine has been banned or restricted in some countries due to concerns about its potential side effects, particularly its link to hyperactivity in children and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. For example, the European Union requires products containing tartrazine and certain other artificial food colors to be labeled with a warning stating, "May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children." Norway had previously banned tartrazine, but the ban was lifted after the country joined the European Economic Area (EEA) in 1994. Other countries may have different regulations and restrictions regarding tartrazine, so it's essential to check the specific regulations in the country of interest.
Animal Origin: No
Warnings: Provokes asthma attacks, urticaria in children, linked to thyroid tumors, chromosomal damage. Banned in Norway and Austria
Back to the Group Back to the Main Page