Tartrazine, a synthetic lemon-yellow azo dye, is one of the most widely used artificial colorants globally, prized for its vibrant hue and cost-effectiveness. However, concerns regarding potential allergic reactions and behavioral effects in sensitive individuals have made identifying it a priority for many consumers. The challenge lies in the fact that this single compound is known by a multitude of names depending on region and application. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to its different aliases, empowering you to make more informed choices.
The Common Aliases of Tartrazine
To correctly identify this additive, it's crucial to be familiar with its most frequent designations. You will often find these names listed on the ingredient labels of a wide range of products.
- FD&C Yellow No. 5: This is the name mandated for labeling in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). A product sold in the U.S. will most commonly use this name, though it may also mention "tartrazine" in the ingredients or in an allergy warning.
- E102: This is the European Union's designation for tartrazine under its E-number system for food additives. Products sold within the EU must carry a warning label stating that E102 "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children".
- Food Yellow 4: This is another common name used, especially in older texts or international contexts.
- C.I. 19140: This stands for "Colour Index 19140," a standardized identifier used globally for colorants. It's often seen on the labels of cosmetic and pharmaceutical products.
- Acid Yellow 23: This name is primarily used in industrial and laboratory settings but can also appear on some product ingredient lists.
- Yellow 5 Lake: This refers to the water-insoluble version of the dye, which is used in non-aqueous products like cosmetics and certain snacks.
How Tartrazine is Used in Everyday Products
Given its versatility and low cost, tartrazine is added to many products beyond just food. Understanding where it's used can help you spot it more easily. In addition to giving items a brilliant yellow color, it's often mixed with other dyes to create various green shades.
Products where you may find tartrazine:
- Beverages: Soft drinks, energy drinks, and powdered drink mixes.
- Confectionery: Candies, chewing gum, instant puddings, and gelatin desserts.
- Snack Foods: Flavored chips, popcorn, and cookies.
- Condiments: Mustard, pickles, and processed sauces.
- Pharmaceuticals: To color the coating of tablets, capsules, and some cough syrups.
- Cosmetics: In liquid soaps, shampoos, lotions, and makeup.
A Comparison of Natural vs. Synthetic Yellow Colorants
Consumers concerned about tartrazine have alternatives available, but it's useful to understand the differences between them and their synthetic counterpart.
| Feature | Tartrazine (FD&C Yellow No. 5) | Natural Yellow Alternatives (e.g., Turmeric, Annatto) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Petroleum-derived synthetic dye | Plant-based extracts |
| Cost | Generally low-cost and very affordable | Can be more expensive to produce |
| Color Stability | Highly stable against light, heat, and acid | Less stable; may fade or change color over time |
| Vibrancy | Produces a very bright, consistent lemon-yellow | Color intensity and shade can vary |
| Allergenicity | Known to cause allergic-type reactions in sensitive individuals | Generally considered safer, though allergies to natural substances can occur |
| Labeling | Explicitly labeled as 'FD&C Yellow 5' or 'E102' | Often labeled with the name of the plant extract (e.g., 'turmeric extract') |
Label Reading and Regulations
Navigating food labels requires careful attention to the different naming conventions. For example, in the United States, manufacturers must list FD&C Yellow No. 5 explicitly on the ingredient list. In contrast, European labels will feature E102, often accompanied by a hyperactivity warning.
Some manufacturers may try to avoid consumer scrutiny by opting for less common names, which makes it even more important to be aware of the full range of aliases. Always be diligent in checking the ingredients of new products, especially if you or someone in your family has a known sensitivity.
The Importance of Ingredient Awareness
Beyond just food, tartrazine's presence in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics means it's worth checking product labels from a holistic health perspective. Many over-the-counter and prescription medications contain FD&C Yellow No. 5, and the FDA requires a specific warning for susceptible individuals on prescription drugs that contain it. Even personal care products like shampoos, soaps, and lotions can harbor the dye, sometimes listed as C.I. 19140. This broad usage highlights why vigilance is key for anyone seeking to minimize their exposure.
Conclusion
For consumers asking, "what else is tartrazine called?", the answer is a diverse list of names that can appear on product labels. The most common include FD&C Yellow No. 5 (in the U.S.) and E102 (in the EU), but others like Acid Yellow 23 and C.I. 19140 are also used. Knowing these aliases is the first step toward better understanding product ingredients and protecting oneself from potential health sensitivities. By being proactive and reading labels carefully across various product categories, consumers can confidently manage their intake of this widespread artificial colorant.
