What Foods Contain E102 (Tartrazine)?

December 17, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, the synthetic yellow dye E102, also known as tartrazine, is approved for use in a wide variety of food categories. This means that the tartrazine colorant can be found in a surprisingly broad range of everyday products, from beverages to condiments and processed snacks. Understanding what foods contain E102 can be crucial for those with sensitivities or a desire to avoid artificial colorings.

Quick Summary

This article details a comprehensive list of common food products where the synthetic yellow coloring E102, also known as tartrazine, is frequently used. It covers various categories, from beverages and sweets to condiments and prepared meals, to help consumers identify items containing this widely used additive. Practical advice for label checking is also included for those who wish to avoid it.

Key Points

Prevalence in Processed Foods: E102 is a common and inexpensive synthetic yellow coloring, found in many processed and packaged foods, including yellow soda, snacks, and candies.
Tartrazine and Yellow No. 5: E102 is also known as Tartrazine in Europe and FD&C Yellow No. 5 in the United States, so look for either name on ingredient lists.
Found in Beverages: A large number of beverages, such as sports drinks, fruit drinks, and some carbonated sodas, contain E102 for color consistency.
Desserts and Confectionery: Many candies, gummies, puddings, ice creams, and jams get their bright yellow color from tartrazine.
Savory and Condiment Uses: The dye is also present in savory items like instant soups, flavored snacks, and mustard.
Non-Food Sources: Beyond food, E102 can also be found in some medications, vitamins, and personal care products.
Allergy Concerns: Individuals with sensitivities, including those with aspirin allergies, may experience allergic reactions or asthma symptoms from tartrazine exposure.
Check Labels: The most reliable method to avoid E102 is to carefully read ingredient labels on all packaged foods, beverages, and other products.

What is E102 (Tartrazine)?

E102 is a synthetic yellow azo dye, also known as Tartrazine or FD&C Yellow No. 5 in the United States. It is a highly stable and water-soluble coloring agent that provides a lemon-yellow to golden hue, making it a cost-effective choice for manufacturers. While it is approved for consumption in many countries, it has been linked to adverse reactions in some individuals. For this reason, some countries either regulate or have banned its use, and labeling requirements often apply where it is permitted.

Beverages and Drink Mixes

Drinks are one of the most common places to find E102 due to its bright, consistent yellow color. This includes both soft drinks and powdered mixes designed for quick preparation.

Carbonated and Soft Drinks: Many brands of lemon-lime soda, yellow-colored sports drinks (e.g., Gatorade), and energy drinks use tartrazine to achieve their bright appearance.
Juice Drinks and Cordials: Flavored juice drinks, fruit cordials, and squash often contain E102 to create vibrant colors and a visually appealing product.
Instant Drink Mixes: Powdered mixes, including some brands of iced tea and flavored beverages, frequently contain tartrazine to produce a consistent yellow shade when mixed with water.

Confectionery, Sweets, and Desserts

The appeal of many candies and desserts comes from their bright and playful colors. E102 plays a major role in achieving this effect in many products.

Candies and Gummies: Many types of hard candies, chewing gum, and gummy sweets, especially yellow or mixed-color varieties, contain E102.
Jams, Jellies, and Marmalades: Some manufacturers add tartrazine to fruit-based spreads and jellies to enhance or standardize their yellow color.
Ice Creams and Sorbets: Yellow-colored ice creams, popsicles, and sorbets may contain E102 to create their distinctive color.
Custard and Puddings: Instant custard powder and other pudding mixes often contain E102 to give them a rich, yellow hue.

Processed and Prepared Foods

Beyond snacks and sweets, E102 is also found in a wide array of savory processed and convenience foods.

Snacks: Many flavored snacks, including certain brands of flavored chips (like Doritos), colored crackers, and popcorn, may use E102.
Soups and Broths: Instant or packet soups, particularly chicken and vegetable varieties, can contain E102 as a coloring agent.
Condiments and Sauces: Mustard is famously yellow due to colorants like E102. Salad dressings, brown sauces, and some pickles may also contain it.
Canned Products: Some canned fruits and vegetables, as well as pickled products, can include E102 to maintain a consistent appearance.

Bakery and Cereal Products

E102 is used to color many baked goods and breakfast cereals, particularly those marketed towards children.

Cakes and Pastries: Packaged cakes, biscuits, and cake mixes that feature a yellow color may contain this dye.
Breakfast Cereals: Some colorful breakfast cereals, including certain brands of corn flakes and fruity cereals, contain E102.

Comparison of E102 with Natural Yellow Colorants


Feature	E102 (Tartrazine)	Curcumin (E100)	Beta-Carotene (E160a)
Origin	Synthetic (petroleum-based)	Natural (from turmeric)	Natural (from carrots, plants)
Stability	Very stable against heat and light	Less stable to heat and light	Generally stable, but can degrade
Cost	Very low cost, widely available	Moderately priced	Moderately priced
Health Concerns	Linked to allergies, hyperactivity in sensitive individuals	Generally considered safe, minor irritation possible	Generally considered safe, provitamin A source
Common Uses	Soft drinks, candies, snacks, sauces	Curry powder, margarine, confectionery	Margarine, cheese, baked goods
Regulatory Status	Regulated or banned in some countries, requires labeling in many	Widely approved for food use	Widely approved for food use

Beyond Food: E102 in Medications and Cosmetics

It is also important to note that the use of E102 extends beyond the food and beverage industry. Pharmaceutical and cosmetic products can also be sources of this synthetic dye. This is particularly relevant for those with known sensitivities who may need to check the ingredients of non-food items.

Medications

Capsules and Syrups: Some medications, vitamins, and antacids use E102 in their coatings or to color syrups.

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Soaps and Lotions: Tartrazine can be found in some soaps, shampoos, and moisturizing lotions.

Conclusion: Navigating Ingredients to Find Foods That Contain E102

E102 is a prevalent and inexpensive synthetic food coloring found in a vast array of processed food products, particularly those with a yellow or golden hue. From carbonated beverages and sugary treats to condiments like mustard and savory snacks, its use is widespread. Awareness of this ingredient is key for individuals concerned with dietary intake of artificial dyes, whether due to a specific sensitivity or a general preference for more natural ingredients. Consumers can manage their intake by carefully reading ingredient labels, which in many countries will list E102 or its alternative name, Tartrazine. As manufacturers increasingly offer natural alternatives, informed consumer choice becomes a powerful tool in avoiding this and other synthetic colorings. For additional information on food additives and labeling, you can consult official resources like the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Note: Ingredient lists and labeling requirements can vary significantly by country and brand. Always check the specific product packaging for the most accurate information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, E102 is the European code for the food additive Tartrazine. In the United States, it is known as FD&C Yellow No. 5.

Many yellow or mixed-colored candies, gummies, and ice creams contain E102. It can also be found in some jam, jelly, and instant pudding mixes.

Yes, E102 is commonly used in drinks, including yellow sports drinks, certain soft drinks, energy drinks, fruit cordials, and some instant powdered beverage mixes.

Yes, many brands of yellow mustard, along with other condiments, use E102 to achieve their signature bright yellow color.

Manufacturers use E102 because it is a highly stable, water-soluble, and inexpensive coloring agent that creates a bright, consistent yellow hue.

Yes, some individuals, particularly those sensitive to aspirin, may experience allergic reactions, asthma, skin rashes, or hyperactivity. Research on other health effects is ongoing.

The best way to avoid E102 is to read ingredient labels carefully and look for 'E102', 'Tartrazine', or 'FD&C Yellow No. 5'. Many manufacturers now offer products with natural colorings.

No, organic food standards prohibit the use of most synthetic additives, including E102. Organic foods must use only natural colorings, if any.