What foods have E102 tartrazine?

December 13, 2025 •

2 min read

According to the FDA, tartrazine (E102) can cause allergic-type reactions, including asthma, in a small portion of the susceptible population, especially those with aspirin sensitivity. This synthetic lemon-yellow food dye is used globally in a vast number of products, making it crucial for consumers to understand what foods have E102 tartrazine.

Quick Summary

E102 tartrazine, a synthetic yellow food coloring also known as FD&C Yellow #5, is prevalent in beverages, confectionery, snacks, and condiments. It is important for consumers to check product labels, as this azo dye is used across many processed food categories.

Key Points

Prevalence in Processed Foods: E102 tartrazine is a synthetic yellow dye used extensively in processed snacks, beverages, and convenience foods.
Labeling and Identification: Look for 'E102' or 'FD&C Yellow #5' on ingredient lists to identify tartrazine in products.
Associated Health Concerns: In sensitive individuals, tartrazine has been linked to allergic reactions, asthma, and possibly increased hyperactivity in children.
Varying Global Regulations: While regulated in many countries, some regions require specific warning labels for E102, whereas others have restricted or banned its use.
Natural Alternatives: Natural food colorings like curcumin (E100) derived from turmeric are used as safer substitutes for yellow coloring.
Avoidance through Choice: Reducing consumption of pre-packaged foods and opting for whole, fresh ingredients is the most effective strategy for avoiding tartrazine.

What is E102 Tartrazine?

E102, also known as tartrazine or FD&C Yellow #5 in the United States, is a synthetic food coloring derived from petroleum. It provides a lemon-yellow color and is used in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries due to its cost-effectiveness, stability, and versatility. It can be mixed with other colorings, like Brilliant Blue (E133), to create green shades.

Common Food Categories Containing E102

E102 tartrazine is found in many processed foods, and its presence isn't always limited to yellow items; it can also contribute to creamy or brown colors. Checking the ingredient list is vital. Common categories include:

Beverages

Soft drinks and sodas, particularly citrus-flavored ones like Mountain Dew.
Sports and energy drinks.
Fruit drinks, cordials, and powdered drink mixes.

Desserts and Confectionery

Candy, including gummy bears and hard candies.
Baked goods, cake mixes, instant puddings, and custards.
Ice cream, ice pops, and popsicles.
Instant gelatins, jellies, and marmalades.

Snacks and Packaged Goods

Flavored chips and crackers.
Some breakfast cereals.
Ready meals, instant soups, and noodle dishes.

Condiments and Spreads

Prepared mustard.
Some pickles and relishes.
Certain processed sauces and salad dressings.

Synthetic vs. Natural Food Colorings


Feature	Synthetic Food Dyes (e.g., Tartrazine)	Natural Food Dyes (e.g., Curcumin)
Source	Petroleum-based chemicals	Plant-based extracts
Cost	Inexpensive	Can be more expensive
Color Stability	Highly stable	Can be less stable
Health Concerns	Linked to allergies and hyperactivity in sensitive individuals	Generally safer, but sensitivities to natural sources are possible
Labeling	'E102', 'Tartrazine', or 'FD&C Yellow #5'	Labeled by source (e.g., 'curcumin' - E100, 'beetroot red' - E162)

How to Identify and Avoid E102

To identify E102, read ingredient labels carefully. In the EU, products with tartrazine must include a warning about potential effects on children's activity and attention. In the US, it's listed as FD&C Yellow #5. Look for 'E102' in other countries.

Tips to avoid E102:

Choose natural or organic products with no artificial colors.
Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods.
Use consumer apps that can scan for additives.
Cook meals from scratch to control ingredients.

Conclusion

E102 tartrazine is a common synthetic food dye found in numerous processed foods and beverages. While considered safe for most at regulated levels, its association with allergies and hyperactivity in sensitive people leads many to avoid it. Being an informed consumer and checking labels for E102, tartrazine, or FD&C Yellow #5 is crucial. Choosing whole foods and natural alternatives can help minimize exposure to this artificial colorant.

For more information on food additives, consult the European Food Safety Authority website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, E102 and FD&C Yellow #5 are different names for the same synthetic food coloring, tartrazine.

Tartrazine is a popular choice for manufacturers because it is a low-cost, stable, and versatile dye that creates a vibrant yellow or is combined to create green shades in products.

No, adverse reactions to tartrazine are most common in a small fraction of the population, particularly those who have aspirin sensitivity or asthma.

While it is regulated in many regions, E102 was previously banned in countries like Austria and Norway, though some of these bans were later lifted to align with EU standards.

Natural alternatives to achieve a yellow color in food include curcumin (E100) from turmeric, annatto (E160b) from achiote seeds, and various carotenoids.

Some research has linked E102 to hyperactivity in children. If a link is suspected, parents can consider eliminating the dye from the child's diet and observing any changes in behavior.

No, not all yellow foods contain E102. Many natural yellow foods, such as bananas, lemons, and some cheeses, get their color from natural pigments. Some manufacturers also use natural yellow colorings like curcumin.