Ingredient · Updated
Yellow 5 Lake
Found in 3 products
What is Yellow 5 Lake?
Yellow 5 Lake is a synthetic dye used to impart a yellow color to foods and cosmetics. It is made by combining Yellow 5 (Tartrazine), a water-soluble dye, with metallic salts to make it insoluble in water, allowing it to be used in products where non-bleeding color is desired.
This compound is used in products like candies, baked goods, and cosmetics to create vibrant, long-lasting yellow hues. Health evidence about tartrazine, the underlying dye, is mixed; some research has linked it to hyperactivity in children, but this is not conclusively proven.
When you see Yellow 5 Lake on a label, it means the product contains artificial coloring, which might be a concern for those aiming to avoid synthetic additives.
Commonly found in: candy, baked goods, cosmetics, snacks, beverages
What to watch
- May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Some studies link it to hyperactivity in children, but findings are mixed.
FDA approves Yellow 5 Lake for use in foods, though it must be listed on labels due to potential allergenicity.
Research on tartrazine shows mixed results regarding its link to hyperactivity and other health issues.
Yellow 5 Lake is synthetic and not derived from animal products, typically considered vegan.
Sources: Color Additives Questions and Answers for Consumers
Scout's take
Part of Artificial Color. Artificial colors are added for visual appeal but are synthetic and may have adverse health perceptions.
More from Scout's analyses
Part of Colors. Artificial and synthetic colorings that are heavily processed and may have adverse health perceptions.
from the analysis of Little Debbie COSMIC BROWNIES WITH CHOCOLATE CHIP CANDYPetroleum-derived aluminum lake dye.
from the analysis of Skittles OriginalAll 3 products with Yellow 5 Lake
Where Yellow 5 Lake shows up
Higher-scoring picks without Yellow 5 Lake
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Yellow 5 Lake, scoring 80 or above.
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