Quinoline Yellow (E104) — What You Need to Know
What Is Quinoline Yellow?
Quinoline Yellow is a synthetic coal tar dye that produces a dull yellow to greenish-yellow color. It is not approved in the United States or Australia but is permitted in the EU where it requires a hyperactivity warning label on products containing it.
What Is It Used For?
Used to color foods, beverages, and cosmetics. Found in some confectioneries, smoked fish, and food supplements in countries where it is approved.
Safety Assessment
Part of the 'Southampton Six' colorings linked to hyperactivity in children in the 2007 McCann study. EU requires warning label: 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.' Not approved in many countries outside the EU.
Based on current evidence, Quinoline Yellow is rated Questionable with a score of 4/10. This is 1.8 points below the average for colorings (5.8/10). Last reviewed by regulators: 2020. A typical diet provides about 0.6% of the acceptable daily intake.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E104 or 'Quinoline Yellow'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Quinoline Yellow
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E104
- INS Number
- 104
- Category
- Colorings
- Origin
- Synthetic
- FDA Status
- Not approved
- EFSA Status
- Authorized (with hyperactivity warning label)
- ADI
- 0.5 mg/kg bw/day
- Last Review
- 2020
Related Additives
Other colorings in the same family