Is Yellow 6 Bad for You? Safety, Side Effects, and What You Need to Know

Yellow 6, also known as Sunset Yellow or FD&C Yellow No. 6, is one of the most widely used artificial food colorings in the United States. This synthetic dye gives foods and beverages an appealing orange-yellow hue, but many consumers wonder whether it poses health risks. With growing concerns about artificial additives in our food supply, understanding the safety profile of Yellow 6 has become increasingly important for making informed dietary choices.

This comprehensive guide examines the scientific research on Yellow 6, its potential health effects, regulatory status, and what you need to know to make the best decisions for you and your family.

What Is Yellow 6?

Yellow 6, chemically known as disodium 6-hydroxy-5-[(4-sulfophenyl)azo]-2-naphthalenesulfonate, is a petroleum-derived synthetic dye that produces an orange-yellow color. It belongs to a class of colorants called azo dyes, which are created through chemical synthesis rather than extracted from natural sources.

The dye was approved for use in foods, drugs, and cosmetics by the FDA and has been used in the food industry for decades due to its stability, low cost, and ability to create vibrant, consistent coloring that doesn’t fade easily.

Common Foods Containing Yellow 6

Yellow 6 is found in a surprisingly wide range of processed foods and beverages. You’ll commonly encounter it in:

• Candy and confectionery products
• Breakfast cereals
• Baked goods including cakes, cookies, and pastries
• Soft drinks and sports drinks
• Snack foods like chips and cheese-flavored products
• Sauces, dressings, and condiments
• Preserved and canned fruits
• Gelatin desserts and puddings
• Ice cream and frozen desserts
• Medication coatings and supplements

According to food industry data, Yellow 6 is among the top three most commonly used artificial food dyes in the United States, second only to Red 40 in prevalence.

Current Regulatory Status of Yellow 6

The regulatory landscape for Yellow 6 varies significantly around the world, reflecting different approaches to food safety assessment.

United States Regulations

The FDA currently approves Yellow 6 for use in foods, drugs, and cosmetics. However, in April 2025, the FDA announced a significant policy shift, planning to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Yellow 6, from the U.S. food supply. The agency is working with the food industry to eliminate FD&C Yellow No. 6 by the end of 2026, while simultaneously fast-tracking approval for natural color alternatives.

European Union Requirements

The European Food Standards Authority (EFSA) permits Yellow 6 use but requires products containing it to carry a warning label stating: “may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.” This labeling requirement has led many European food manufacturers to reformulate products using natural colorings instead.

Other Countries

Norway and Finland have banned Yellow 6 entirely. Several other countries have implemented restrictions or require special labeling for products containing this dye.

Potential Health Concerns Associated with Yellow 6

Allergic Reactions and Sensitivities

Yellow 6 has been identified as a potential allergen for some individuals. Documented allergic reactions include:

• Skin reactions such as hives, itching, or eczema
• Respiratory symptoms including nasal congestion or asthma
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Swelling or angioedema
• Migraine headaches in sensitive individuals

Research published in medical journals has documented cases of hypersensitivity reactions to Yellow 6, particularly in individuals who are also sensitive to aspirin or have existing allergies. A study in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology noted that while true allergic reactions to food dyes are relatively rare, they do occur and can be significant for affected individuals.

Hyperactivity and Behavioral Effects in Children

One of the most researched and debated concerns about Yellow 6 involves its potential connection to hyperactivity and attention problems in children.

A landmark 2007 study published in The Lancet, known as the Southampton Study, found that certain combinations of artificial food colorings, including Yellow 6, along with the preservative sodium benzoate, were associated with increased hyperactivity in children. This study prompted the European Union to require warning labels on products containing these dyes.

Subsequent research has yielded mixed results. A 2022 comprehensive review examining artificial food colorings and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) found evidence suggesting a small but significant association between synthetic dyes and increased hyperactivity symptoms in some children, particularly those already diagnosed with ADHD or those who are sensitive to food additives.

Another 2022 study published in Environmental Health found that food dyes, including Yellow 6, may be associated with changes in attention and activity levels in children, though the effect size varied among individuals.

It’s important to note that not all children react to food dyes, and those who do may vary in their sensitivity levels. Research suggests that approximately 8-10% of children with ADHD may experience worsening symptoms when consuming artificial food colorings.

Potential Contamination Concerns

Yellow 6 is synthesized from petroleum-derived chemicals, and during the manufacturing process, there is potential for contamination with substances such as:

• Benzidine and other aromatic amines, some of which are known carcinogens
• Heavy metals
• Other manufacturing byproducts

The FDA sets strict purity standards and acceptable contamination limits for approved dyes. However, some health advocates argue that any level of potentially carcinogenic contaminants is cause for concern, particularly with regular, long-term consumption.

Genotoxicity and Cancer Concerns

Some laboratory studies have investigated whether Yellow 6 might cause genetic damage or increase cancer risk. Animal studies have produced conflicting results:

Some research has suggested possible tumor development in laboratory animals exposed to high doses of Yellow 6, though these findings have been inconsistent and often occurred at doses far exceeding typical human consumption levels.

A comprehensive toxicological assessment by regulatory agencies concluded that Yellow 6 does not pose a carcinogenic risk to humans at typical consumption levels. However, critics point out that most safety studies are conducted by or funded by the food industry, potentially creating conflicts of interest.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has not classified Yellow 6 as carcinogenic to humans, reflecting the current lack of definitive evidence linking the dye to cancer in humans at normal exposure levels.

What Does the Scientific Evidence Really Say?

The scientific consensus on Yellow 6 safety remains somewhat divided, with different interpretations of available data:

Arguments for Safety

• Extensive toxicological testing shows no clear evidence of harm at typical consumption levels
• Decades of use without widespread adverse health outcomes
• Regulatory approval from major food safety authorities
• Most reported adverse reactions are mild and affect only a small percentage of the population

Arguments for Caution

• Documented allergic reactions and sensitivities in some individuals
• Evidence suggesting behavioral effects in sensitive children
• Potential for low-level contaminants from manufacturing processes
• Lack of long-term studies on cumulative effects of multiple synthetic dyes
• No nutritional benefit, making any potential risk unnecessary

Who Should Consider Avoiding Yellow 6?

While Yellow 6 is generally recognized as safe for most people, certain groups may benefit from limiting or avoiding it:

Children with ADHD or Behavioral Concerns

If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, displays hyperactive behavior, or has difficulty concentrating, some healthcare providers recommend trying an elimination diet that removes artificial food dyes, including Yellow 6. If behavioral improvements are observed after elimination and symptoms return upon reintroduction, continued avoidance may be beneficial.

Individuals with Known Sensitivities or Allergies

Anyone who has experienced allergic reactions, skin problems, respiratory symptoms, or migraines that seem connected to food consumption should consider eliminating artificial dyes as part of an elimination diet to identify triggers.

People with Aspirin Sensitivity

Research suggests cross-reactivity between aspirin and certain azo dyes like Yellow 6. Individuals with aspirin sensitivity or aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease may want to avoid Yellow 6.

Those Following Clean or Whole Food Diets

Many people who prioritize minimally processed, whole foods choose to avoid artificial additives as a general principle, regardless of their approved safety status.

How to Avoid Yellow 6

If you decide to limit or eliminate Yellow 6 from your diet, here are practical strategies:

Read Ingredient Labels Carefully

Yellow 6 must be listed on ingredient labels. Look for these terms:

• Yellow 6
• FD&C Yellow No. 6
• Sunset Yellow
• E110 (European designation)
• CI 15985 (color index number)

Choose Whole, Unprocessed Foods

The most effective way to avoid artificial food dyes is to focus your diet on:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Lean proteins
• Legumes and nuts
• Foods prepared from scratch at home

Look for Natural Alternatives

Many food manufacturers now offer versions of popular products colored with natural alternatives such as:

• Turmeric (yellow-orange)
• Annatto (yellow-orange)
• Beta-carotene (orange-yellow)
• Paprika extract (orange-red)

Choose Organic When Possible

Organic certified foods cannot contain synthetic food dyes, making organic products a safe choice if you’re avoiding artificial colorings.

Natural Alternatives to Yellow 6

The food industry is increasingly turning to natural colorings in response to consumer demand and regulatory changes. Natural yellow-orange alternatives include:

• Turmeric: Derived from the turmeric root, provides a bright yellow color
• Annatto: Extracted from achiote seeds, produces yellow to orange hues
• Beta-carotene: Found in carrots and other vegetables, creates orange-yellow tones
• Saffron: An expensive but natural option for golden-yellow coloring
• Marigold extract (lutein): Provides yellow coloring from flower petals

While these natural alternatives are generally considered safer, they can be more expensive, less stable, and may require different formulation techniques. This is why the food industry has been slow to transition, though the FDA’s 2025 announcement is accelerating this change.

The Bottom Line: Is Yellow 6 Bad for You?

The answer depends on individual factors and your personal approach to food safety:

For most people: Yellow 6 appears to be safe when consumed in typical amounts found in food. Decades of use and toxicological testing have not revealed clear evidence of serious harm for the general population at normal consumption levels.

For sensitive individuals: A subset of people, particularly children with ADHD or behavioral concerns and individuals with allergies or sensitivities, may experience adverse effects from Yellow 6. For these groups, avoidance is a reasonable precautionary measure.

From a nutritional perspective: Yellow 6 provides no nutritional benefit. It exists solely to make food more visually appealing. Since the foods most likely to contain Yellow 6 are highly processed items with limited nutritional value, reducing consumption of these foods offers health benefits regardless of dye safety concerns.

The precautionary principle: Some people prefer to avoid artificial additives when natural alternatives exist, applying a “better safe than sorry” approach, especially for children whose developing bodies may be more vulnerable to potential effects.

Looking Forward: The Future of Food Dyes

The FDA’s 2025 announcement regarding the phase-out of petroleum-based synthetic dyes represents a significant shift in U.S. food policy. This decision reflects:

• Growing consumer demand for cleaner labels and natural ingredients
• Accumulating research on potential behavioral effects in children
• Successful transitions to natural colorings in other countries
• Advances in natural color technology making alternatives more viable

As Yellow 6 is phased out over the coming years, consumers can expect to see more products reformulated with natural colorings or no added colors at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Yellow 6 cause cancer?

Current scientific evidence does not support a link between Yellow 6 consumption at typical levels and cancer in humans. While some animal studies have shown mixed results at very high doses, major cancer research organizations have not classified Yellow 6 as carcinogenic.

Is Yellow 6 banned in Europe?

No, Yellow 6 is not banned in Europe, but products containing it must carry a warning label about potential effects on children’s activity and attention. This labeling requirement has led many manufacturers to use natural alternatives instead.

How much Yellow 6 is safe to consume?

The FDA has established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Yellow 6 of 3.75 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. For a 150-pound (68 kg) adult, this equals about 255 mg per day. Most people consume far less than this amount.

Can Yellow 6 cause behavioral problems in all children?

No. Research suggests that only a subset of children, estimated at 8-10% of those with ADHD and a smaller percentage of the general child population, show behavioral sensitivity to artificial food dyes. Most children do not experience noticeable behavioral changes from Yellow 6 consumption.

Are natural yellow dyes safer than Yellow 6?

Natural colorings like turmeric and annatto are generally considered safer because they come from food sources and have been consumed for centuries. However, some individuals can still have allergies or sensitivities to natural colorings. “Natural” doesn’t always mean “risk-free” for every person.

Takeaway

Whether Yellow 6 is “bad” for you depends on your individual health status, sensitivities, and dietary philosophy. For most people, occasional consumption poses no clear health risk based on current evidence. However, for children with behavioral concerns, individuals with allergies or sensitivities, and those following a whole-foods diet, avoiding Yellow 6 is a reasonable choice.

The most important consideration is that Yellow 6 is found primarily in processed foods that offer little nutritional value. Regardless of dye safety, reducing consumption of heavily processed foods and focusing on whole, minimally processed alternatives will improve your overall health and naturally decrease your exposure to artificial additives.

If you’re concerned about Yellow 6 or notice potential reactions after consuming foods containing it, consult with a healthcare provider who can help you identify triggers and develop an appropriate dietary approach for your individual needs.

Sources:

• FDA – Color Additives in Foods
• FDA – Phase Out of Petroleum-Based Synthetic Dyes
• PubMed Central – National Library of Medicine
• The Lancet Medical Journal
• UK Food Standards Agency – Food Additives
• European Food Safety Authority