Colours & Dyes
Food colours (E100–E199) are additives used to make food look more appealing, restore colour lost during processing, or standardise the appearance of natural products. They range from plant-derived pigments like curcumin (E100) to synthetic azo dyes like tartrazine (E102). Regulatory approaches vary significantly: the EU requires a mandatory warning label on six synthetic azo dyes (the "Southampton Six") linked to hyperactivity in children, while the USA permits their use without such labelling.
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
All Colours & Dyes (46 additives)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which food colours are banned in the EU but allowed in the USA?
Several synthetic dyes approved by the FDA are banned in the EU, including Red 40 (Allura Red, E129) — though this is actually permitted in the EU. Key EU-banned colours include Erythrosine (E127, banned for most uses), and Red 2G (E128, banned EU). Conversely, Quinoline Yellow (E104), Brown HT (E155), and Patent Blue V (E131) are EU-approved but banned in the USA. Regulatory differences reflect the EU's more cautious approach to synthetic dyes following the 2007 Southampton study.
What is the EU warning label for food colours?
The EU requires the statement "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children" on foods containing any of six synthetic azo dyes: Sunset Yellow (E110), Quinoline Yellow (E104), Carmoisine (E122), Allura Red (E129), Tartrazine (E102), and Ponceau 4R (E124). This requirement follows a 2007 Southampton University study commissioned by the UK Food Standards Agency.
Are natural food colours safer than synthetic ones?
Regulatory agencies assess additives individually based on toxicology, not by natural vs. synthetic origin. Some natural colours have faced regulatory restrictions (e.g., Canthaxanthin E161g is restricted due to retinal deposit concerns), while many synthetic colours remain fully approved. The distinction between natural and synthetic is scientifically and regulatorily less meaningful than commonly perceived.