Sunset Yellow (E110): Pretty Colors, Ugly Side Effects

TL;DR

Sunset Yellow (often listed as Yellow 6 or E110) is a petroleum-based artificial dye used to give foods a bright orange-yellow color. Like Tartrazine, it requires a warning label in Europe due to its link to hyperactivity in children. Animal studies have also raised concerns about adrenal tumors. Kale rates it as Avoid (Red).

What is Sunset Yellow (E110)?

Sunset Yellow FCF is a synthetic azo dye. It is one of the most widely used food colors in the world, prized for its ability to create that "artificial cheese" orange or "sunny delight" yellow.

On US labels, you'll see it listed as Yellow 6 or Yellow 6 Lake.

Where is it found?

If it's processed and orange, there's a good chance it contains E110.

• Snacks: Cheetos, Doritos, and other cheese puffs or chips.
• Candy: Candy corn, M&Ms, gummy worms, and jelly beans.
• Drinks: Orange sodas (like Fanta), sports drinks, and fruit punches.
• Desserts: Gelatos, puddings, cake mixes, and frostings.
• Condiments: Some barbecue sauces and bright orange dressings.
• Medications: Orange colored capsules and syrups.

Health Concerns

1. The Hyperactivity Link

Just like its cousin Tartrazine (Yellow 5), Sunset Yellow was one of the "Southampton Six" dyes shown to increase hyperactivity and reduce attention span in children.

Because of this, the European Union mandates the warning: "May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children" on any product containing E110.

2. Adrenal Tumors

Animal studies conducted by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) found some evidence of adrenal gland tumors in animals exposed to Yellow 6. While the FDA deemed the risk "safe" for humans, the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) maintains that the dye should be banned due to this carcinogenicity risk.

3. Allergic Reactions

Sunset Yellow is known to cause hypersensitivity reactions, particularly in people with aspirin allergies or asthma. Symptoms can include gastric upset, diarrhea, vomiting, swelling of the skin (angioedema), and hives.

Kale's Verdict: Avoid (Red)

Kale rates E110 (Sunset Yellow / Yellow 6) as Avoid (Red).

The potential risks—ESPECIALLY for children's behavior and development—far outweigh the "benefit" of having neon-orange chips.

There are safe, natural alternatives available. Annatto, paprika extract, and beta-carotene can all produce beautiful orange hues without the warning labels.

How to Avoid It

1. Check the Label: Scan specifically for "Yellow 6," "Yellow 6 Lake," or "E110."
2. Scan with Kale: We'll flag it immediately so you can make a safer choice.
3. Opt for Natural: Choose brands that use Annatto or Paprika for color.
4. Be Wary of "Orange" Flavors: If a drink or candy is orange-flavored, assume it has Yellow 6 unless it explicitly says "No Artificial Colors."

Final Thoughts

We eat with our eyes, but that shouldn't mean compromising our health. The vibrant colors of nature—from carrots, pumpkins, and turmeric—are more than enough to make our food look appealing. We don't need petroleum-based dyes to make our snacks exciting.

Check if your favorite orange soda is hiding E110. Download Kale today.