Yellow Dye 6

Yellow Dye 6 (Sunset Yellow FCF) is a synthetic azo dye made from petroleum that colors food, cosmetics, and medicine. An azo dye is a subcategory of artificial dyes, described by its chemical composition of the azo group. Its pigment is orange or golden, and often paired with Red Dye 40 to dye cheddar-flavored snacks. Although it is approved by the FDA for use, many countries have banned this dye due to health concerns. Yellow Dye 6 and other synthetic azo dyes contain benzidine, which is suspected to be a carcinogen. Other health concerns include hyperactivity and inattentiveness in children.