E102

E102, commonly known as tartrazine, is a synthetic azo dye used as a yellow food colorant. In the European Union it is assigned the E number E102 and is also marketed as Tartrazine, Yellow 5, or FD&C Yellow 5 in the United States. Tartrazine is water-soluble and used to impart yellow to a wide range of products, including soft drinks, candy, baked goods, desserts, sauces, snacks, medicines, and cosmetics. It is frequently combined with other colorants to achieve different shades.

Regulation and labeling: In the EU, tartrazine is approved for use as a food additive with maximum permitted levels by product category, and labeling is required. Products containing tartrazine must indicate the presence of a synthetic colorant, and many EU member states require a caution that such colors may affect activity and attention in children. In the United States, tartrazine is an approved color additive (Yellow 5) regulated by the FDA and must be declared in the ingredient list.

Health considerations: Tartrazine can trigger allergic reactions in a small subset of individuals, particularly those with aspirin sensitivity or chronic urticaria. The evidence linking tartrazine to hyperactivity in children is inconclusive; authorities have reported no general causal effect, though some studies note possible effects in sensitive subgroups and labeling may be used for consumer awareness. Some consumers avoid tartrazine for personal or health reasons.