Is Tartrazine (E102) Vegan?

Vegan status: Vegan

E-number: E102

Also known as: FD&C Yellow No. 5, CI 19140, Acid Yellow 23

Source

A synthetic azo dye produced entirely from petrochemicals. No animal products are used in its manufacture.

Commonly found in

Soft drinks, sweets, jelly, pickles, mustard, custard powder, some medications.

Vegan alternative: No substitute needed — Tartrazine is vegan. Natural alternatives include turmeric (E100) or beta-carotene (E160a).

Notes

Vegan, but one of the most controversial food additives. One of the 'Southampton Six' dyes linked to hyperactivity in children (McCann et al., The Lancet, 2007). Must be declared on labels in the EU with the warning 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.' Banned in Norway and Finland. Permitted in the EU and USA.