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Answer: CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine) is restricted (not fully banned) in EU. The FDA still allows it in US cosmetics and personal-care products. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: Various yellow-colored shampoos and soaps, Some OGX and Herbal Essences products.
TL;DR: CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine) is restricted in the EU but allowed in the US (colorant).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
INCI name CI 19140. Also called Yellow 5. CAS 1934-21-0.
Other names: FD&C Yellow 5, Tartrazine, Yellow 5 (cosmetic)
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Various yellow-colored shampoos and soaps, Some OGX and Herbal Essences products |
| CAS number | 1934-21-0 |
CI 19140 (tartrazine) is an azo dye that produces a bright lemon-yellow color. It is approved for use in food (as FD&C Yellow 5) and cosmetics in the US. In cosmetics, it is used in products applied to the skin, nails, and hair.
Provides yellow coloring in shampoos, soaps, bath products, and some color cosmetics.
CI 19140 is considered safe for cosmetic use by the CIR when used at regulated concentrations in rinse-off and leave-on external products (excluding eye area). The EU restricts its use and requires allergen labeling for tartrazine-sensitive individuals. It is not approved for use in products applied near the eyes in the EU. Some aspirin-sensitive individuals may also react to tartrazine. There is no evidence of carcinogenicity or systemic toxicity from topical cosmetic use.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine)with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Beta-carotene or turmeric extract (CI 75300) for yellow coloring with a more natural origin.
Yes, same molecule (tartrazine). The safety profiles for topical cosmetic use are generally considered even more favorable than for ingested use.
Not banned, but restricted in EU cosmetics — it is listed with specific conditions and requires allergen labeling for some applications.
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