FD&C Yellow No. 6
Synthetic azo dye (Sunset Yellow) used as orange-yellow food colouring. Part of Southampton Six hyperactivity-linked dyes. Cross-reactivity with aspirin. Associated with allergic reactions and hypersensitivity. EFSA re-evaluated safety 2009 but EU hyperactivity labelling requirement maintained.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Acts on cellular signalling pathways relevant to the documented clinical indications. Contains bioactive compounds with enzyme-modulating, receptor-binding, or antioxidant properties studied in peer-reviewed literature.
EU mandatory warning: "May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children." Potential cross-reactivity with aspirin. Allergic reactions: urticaria, angioedema, rhinitis. Norway banned it (later harmonised with EU). Avoid in children with ADHD, aspirin-sensitive individuals, and patients with chronic urticaria.