Tartrazine
Tartrazine gives a bright lemon yellow at very low cost, but in the EU it is one of the Southampton colours requiring the warning 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children'.
Key Specifications
| CAS number | 1934-21-0 |
|---|---|
| E number | E102 |
| Purity | ≥ 85 percent dye content |
| Solubility | Very soluble in water |
| Light fastness | Good |
| Dosage | 5-50 ppm |
Bright, cheap and legally constrained
Tartrazine gives a bright lemon yellow at very low cost, but in the EU it is one of the Southampton colours requiring the warning 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children'. That label is the main reason many brands have reformulated away from it.
Stability profile
It is stable to heat, light and acid, which is why it remains popular in applications where natural yellows fade.
Typical Applications
- Carbonated beverages — 10-30 ppm for a lemon-yellow shade.
- Confectionery and snacks — 20-50 ppm, subject to the EU warning requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EU label requirement?
Products containing it must state that it may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.
What natural alternatives exist?
Curcumin, beta-carotene and safflower extracts, though none match its brightness or stability.
Is it stable in ascorbic acid?
It can fade in the presence of ascorbic acid in beverages, so check stability in the final system.
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