Is CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine) Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine) is restricted in EU, though the FDA still allows it in the US. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine) on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. 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 and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine): regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Various yellow-colored shampoos and soaps, Some OGX and Herbal Essences products |
What is CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine)?
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.
Why is CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine) used in personal-care products?
Provides yellow coloring in shampoos, soaps, bath products, and some color cosmetics.
What regulators have flagged about CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine)
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 and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Pregnancy-conscious swaps free from CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine) →
Audited products that don't contain CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine).
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CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine) and pregnancy: common questions
Is CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine) banned anywhere?
Yes. CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine) is restricted in EU. The FDA still allows it in the US.
Should I avoid CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine) during pregnancy?
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
What products contain CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine)?
Commonly found in Various yellow-colored shampoos and soaps, Some OGX and Herbal Essences products. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine).
What can I use instead of CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine)?
Beta-carotene or turmeric extract (CI 75300) for yellow coloring with a more natural origin. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains CI 19140 (Yellow 5 / Tartrazine) or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
Sources
- FDA Cosmetic Color Additives — FD&C Yellow 5 — U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- EWG Skin Deep: CI 19140 — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.