What is E102? Tartrazine Explained
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E102 is Tartrazine — a bright yellow synthetic azo dye, one of the Southampton Six linked to hyperactivity in children.
What is E102 (Tartrazine)?
E102 is Tartrazine, a food additive classified as a colour that give food its colour. A bright yellow synthetic azo dye, one of the southampton six linked to hyperactivity in children. You'll find it in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks, cake icing and many other packaged foods. Tartrazine is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E102 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Where is E102 found?
E102 (Tartrazine) is found in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks, cake icing, jams and preserves, ready meals, desserts.
- sweets and confectionery
- soft drinks
- cake icing
- jams and preserves
- ready meals
- desserts
Also known as: Tartrazine
Is E102 safe?
E102 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. E102 is one of the Southampton Six (or associated additives) — EFSA's 2012 opinion confirmed a link to hyperactivity in children when consumed in combination, and the EU requires foods containing it to carry the warning 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children'. For most people consuming Tartrazine in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either active scientific debate, mandatory warning labels, allergen status, or conditions attached to its authorisation.
EFSA opinion: Tartrazine — status Some concerns.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E102. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
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E102 FAQs
What is E102 in food?
E102 is Tartrazine — a bright yellow synthetic azo dye, one of the Southampton Six linked to hyperactivity in children.
Is E102 safe to eat?
E102 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. E102 is one of the Southampton Six (or associated additives) — EFSA's 2012 opinion confirmed a link to hyperactivity in children when
Is E102 vegan?
E102 (Tartrazine) is vegan. It is derived from synthetic azo dye, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E102 halal?
E102 (Tartrazine) is halal. It is derived from synthetic azo dye, which involves no haram sources.
Related Colours additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA