What are the side effects of Yellow 5 aluminum lake?

January 12, 2026 •

4 min read

According to the Food and Drug Administration, Yellow 5 (tartrazine) has been approved for use in foods, drugs, and cosmetics since 1969. However, growing concerns focus on the side effects of Yellow 5 aluminum lake, a specific form of this dye.

Quick Summary

Derived from Yellow 5, this aluminum lake pigment has been linked to allergic reactions and hyperactivity, especially in children. Research also explores possible long-term health effects of this additive.

Key Points

Allergic Reactions: Yellow 5 aluminum lake can trigger allergic responses like hives, asthma, and angioedema in sensitive individuals, especially those with aspirin sensitivity.
Hyperactivity in Children: Numerous studies have linked Yellow 5 and other synthetic dyes to increased hyperactivity and attention issues in children, with European countries mandating warning labels.
Genotoxic Concerns: Laboratory and animal studies have suggested that Yellow 5 can cause cellular damage and oxidative stress, potentially increasing the long-term risk of conditions like colon cancer, though more research is needed.
Not Proven Carcinogen: While Yellow 5 is not definitively proven to cause cancer, some batches may contain trace contaminants like benzidine, a known carcinogen.
Behavioral and Neurological Impact: Research in animals and humans suggests the dye can impact gene expression related to brain function and behavior, which may have long-term neurological effects.
Migraines and GI Issues: Anecdotal evidence and some reports suggest that Yellow 5 may act as a trigger for migraines and cause gastrointestinal discomfort like nausea and cramps in some people.
Insolubility for Coatings: The 'aluminum lake' form of Yellow 5 is an insoluble pigment, making it ideal for coloring coatings on pills, dry mixes, and candies where color bleeding is undesirable.

Understanding Yellow 5 and its Aluminum Lake Form

Yellow 5 aluminum lake is a specific version of the synthetic dye FD&C Yellow No. 5, also known as tartrazine. The key difference from the water-soluble version is that it is made by combining the dye with aluminum hydroxide, making it insoluble. This property makes it suitable for coloring dry products, coatings, and fat-based items like tablets, candies, and cosmetics.

Allergic and Hypersensitivity Reactions

Allergic and hypersensitivity reactions are among the most frequently reported side effects of Yellow 5 aluminum lake. Individuals with sensitivities, especially to aspirin or with existing skin conditions like hives, may face a higher risk. Reactions can range from mild to severe.

Potential allergic symptoms include:

Urticaria (hives): Itchy, raised skin bumps due to histamine release.
Asthma: The dye can worsen asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals. The FDA mandates a warning label for Yellow 5 in certain products to alert susceptible people.
Angioedema: Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, which is a serious allergic reaction.
Eczema: Can aggravate eczema, particularly in children.

Behavioral Issues and Hyperactivity in Children

Research into artificial food dyes and children's behavior has been extensive. Studies, such as the Southampton studies, have indicated a link between consuming a mix of artificial food colorings (including Yellow 5) and increased hyperactivity in children.

A 2007 Lancet study showed that a combination of food colorings and sodium benzoate preservative increased hyperactivity.
Reviews of human studies suggest a link between food dye exposure and negative behavioral outcomes like irritability and sleep problems.
The European Union requires a warning label about potential adverse effects on activity and attention in children, a regulation not mandatory in the U.S..

Potential Genotoxic and Carcinogenic Concerns

While Yellow 5 is not definitively proven to cause cancer, some research highlights potential issues related to cellular health and contaminants.

Contaminants: The dye may contain low levels of contaminants like benzidine, which is linked to cancer at high doses.
Genotoxicity: Some studies indicate Yellow 5 can induce oxidative stress and potentially damage DNA in lab and animal tests, though possibly not at approved concentrations. A 2015 study found DNA damage in human white blood cells after exposure.
Long-Term Exposure: Concerns remain about whether high, chronic intake over a lifetime could increase health risks, highlighting the need for more human research.

Other Reported Side Effects

Beyond allergies and behavioral effects, some individuals have anecdotally associated Yellow 5 aluminum lake with other health issues, though research is less conclusive.

Headaches and Migraines: Some migraine sufferers report Yellow 5 as a trigger.
Gastrointestinal Distress: Symptoms like stomach cramps, nausea, and bloating have been linked to consumption in some people.
Blurred Vision: Some reports suggest a temporary link to blurred vision.

Natural Alternatives to Yellow 5 Aluminum Lake

Due to potential side effects, many are looking for natural colorants. Plant-based options can provide vibrant yellow colors without the synthetic dye risks.

Turmeric/Curcumin: Provides a bright yellow from the turmeric rhizome.
Annatto: Seed extract offering yellow to orange hues, often used in dairy.
Safflower: Provides a cool yellow shade; regulatory approval varies.
Beta-Carotene: A carotenoid providing yellow to orange, used in beverages and baked goods.
Carrot Concentrate: Offers excellent yellow and orange coloring.

Comparison of Yellow 5 Aluminum Lake and Natural Colorants


Feature	Yellow 5 Aluminum Lake (Tartrazine)	Natural Yellow Colorants (e.g., Turmeric)
Source	Derived from petroleum.	Derived from natural plant sources.
Cost	Inexpensive to produce.	Can be more expensive than synthetic dyes.
Color Stability	Excellent heat and pH stability; ideal for processed foods.	Stability varies; some are heat-stable, others are sensitive to light or pH changes.
Allergenic Potential	Known to cause allergic and hypersensitivity reactions in susceptible individuals.	Allergic reactions are less common but still possible, such as with annatto.
Behavioral Effects	Linked to hyperactivity and behavioral issues in some children.	No evidence of a link to hyperactivity.
Manufacturing Contaminants	Can contain trace amounts of known carcinogens like benzidine.	Generally free of synthetic dye contaminants.

Conclusion

While the FDA considers Yellow 5 and its aluminum lake safe within set limits, concerns about allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children persist. Its insoluble nature makes Yellow 5 aluminum lake a stable colorant for many products, but potential health trade-offs exist for some. Research continues into long-term effects, with some studies suggesting potential cellular damage from high chronic intake. Growing consumer demand for cleaner labels and awareness of these concerns are driving the shift towards natural alternatives like turmeric and beta-carotene. To minimize exposure, individuals can check ingredient labels and choose dye-free or naturally colored options.

FDA Statement on Yellow 5 (Tartrazine)

For more information on the FDA's current stance and historical decisions regarding FD&C Yellow No. 5, including updates on labeling requirements and safety assessments, visit the official Food and Drug Administration website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yellow 5 is a water-soluble synthetic dye (tartrazine), while Yellow 5 aluminum lake is an insoluble form of the same dye. The 'lake' is created by combining the dye with aluminum hydroxide, making it suitable for applications that require the color to be stable and not bleed, such as tablet coatings and dry food mixes.

No, Yellow 5 does not cause hyperactivity in all children. However, studies show that it can have an adverse effect on activity and attention in some children, especially those with pre-existing behavioral issues like ADHD. Many European countries require warning labels on products that contain the dye because of this potential link.

Common allergic reaction symptoms include hives, skin rashes, and asthma. More severe reactions can involve angioedema, which is swelling of the face, lips, and tongue. People with aspirin sensitivity are particularly at risk for these reactions.

Yes, several natural colorants can be used as alternatives. These include turmeric (curcumin), annatto seed extract, safflower concentrate, beta-carotene derived from carrots, and other plant-based colorings.

While it is not universally banned, many countries in Europe, such as Austria and Norway, have banned or restricted its use. The European Union requires a warning label on products that contain the dye, unlike the United States.

The link between Yellow 5 and cancer is not definitively proven. However, concerns exist due to potential contaminants in the dye, like benzidine, and some lab studies indicating the dye may cause DNA damage and cellular stress over time, particularly with high, chronic exposure.

To avoid Yellow 5, you should read ingredient labels carefully and look for 'Yellow 5', 'FD&C Yellow No. 5', 'Tartrazine', or 'E102'. Opting for organic or naturally colored products, cooking with whole foods, and choosing dye-free versions of products can help minimize exposure.