Yellow 6 aluminum lake?

“Yellow 6 aluminum lake” usually refers to a coal-tar–derived synthetic food color additive known in the U.S. as FD&C Yellow No. 6 (tartrazine) that is converted into an “aluminum lake” form.

What it is

• Tartrazine (FD&C Yellow No. 5) is sometimes confused with Yellow 6, but in labeling, “Yellow 6” commonly points to Sunset Yellow FCF (FD&C Yellow No. 6), which is a different dye.
• When you add aluminum (and precipitate it), you get an aluminum lake: an insoluble pigment form used to improve stability and powder handling.

Where it’s used

Typically in:

• Foods (especially processed products)
• Drugs/medicines (coloring in tablets/capsules)
• Cosmetics (depending on region and regulations)

Safety notes (general)

• In sensitive people, synthetic yellow dyes have been associated with:
  • Allergic-type reactions (rare)
  • Worsening of asthma in some individuals
  • Hyperactivity concerns have been discussed for some dye mixtures, though evidence varies.
• If you have dye sensitivities, asthma, or a history of reactions to food colors, it’s worth checking with a clinician.

Quick question (so I answer precisely)

When you saw “Yellow 6 aluminum lake,” was it on a food label, supplement/medicine label, or something else? And do you know the exact wording/ingredient number (e.g., “FD&C Yellow No. 6” or “E110”)?