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E102 Tartrazine: Food Dye, Risks and Labelling

E102 (tartrazine) is a synthetic yellow food dye used in many processed foods and beverages. In sensitive individuals, it may trigger allergic reactions or worsen hyperactivity in children.

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Things worth knowing about "E102"

E102 (tartrazine) is a synthetic yellow food dye used in many processed foods and beverages. In sensitive individuals, it may trigger allergic reactions or worsen hyperactivity in children.

What is E102 (Tartrazine)?

E102, commonly known as tartrazine, is a synthetic azo dye with a bright yellow to orange-yellow colour. It is an approved food additive in the European Union and is widely used in the food and beverage industry to give products a visually appealing appearance.

Origin and Production

Tartrazine is produced through chemical synthesis and belongs to the group of azo compounds, which are derived from aromatic amines. It is an entirely synthetic dye with no natural origin.

Use in Food and Products

E102 is found in a wide range of food products and beverages, including:

Soft drinks and carbonated beverages
Sweets, gummy candies, and confectionery
Desserts, puddings, and jellies
Instant soups and ready meals
Mustard and seasoning blends
Certain medications and dietary supplements (as a coating colourant)

Health Aspects and Potential Risks

E102 is approved for use in the EU but must be declared on the ingredient list in accordance with EU labelling regulations. Products containing tartrazine and certain other azo dyes must carry the warning statement may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children under EU law.

Allergic Reactions

A small proportion of the population may experience intolerance reactions to E102. Individuals with a known aspirin (salicylate) sensitivity or pre-existing allergies appear to be at higher risk. Possible symptoms include:

Skin reactions such as urticaria (hives) or itching
Rhinitis (inflammation of the nasal mucosa)
Asthma-like respiratory complaints
In rare cases, anaphylactic reactions

Hyperactivity in Children

Several studies, most notably the Southampton Study, have identified a possible link between the consumption of certain artificial food colours, including tartrazine, and increased hyperactivity in children. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) evaluated this evidence and recommended the mandatory warning label that is now required across the EU.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

The acceptable daily intake (ADI) for E102 has been set by EFSA at 7.5 mg per kg of body weight per day. Under normal dietary conditions, this limit is generally not exceeded by the average consumer.

Labelling and Regulation

In the EU, E102 is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives. Manufacturers are required to list the colourant in the ingredient declaration either as E102 or as tartrazine. In some countries outside the EU, tartrazine was at times subject to restrictions or bans.

References

European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Scientific Opinion on the re-evaluation of Tartrazine (E 102). EFSA Journal, 2009.
McCann D. et al. - Food additives and hyperactive behaviour in 3-year-old and 8/9-year-old children in the community: a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. The Lancet, 2007.
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on food additives.

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