Quinoline Yellow (cl food grade yellow 13)

E104, commonly known as Quinoline Yellow, is a synthetic dye used primarily as a food additive. It belongs to the class of quinophthalon dyes and is known for imparting a greenish‑yellow colour to foods. Quinoline yellow is used in a variety of industries, including the food, beverage, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, due to its distinctive colouring properties.

Origin

Quinoline yellow is of artificial origin. It is synthesized by a chemical process that involves condensing quinoline with other compounds to form the final dye. This synthetic process ensures consistency of color and quality, making it a reliable choice for food manufacturers.

Characteristics and uses in the food industry

Quinoline yellow is used in food products for several reasons:

• Color enhancement: It provides a bright and attractive yellow color to foods and beverages.
• Stability.
• Solubility.
• Versatility: It can be used in both liquid and powder form, suitable for a variety of applications.

Use in ultra‑processed foods

Quinoline yellow is commonly found in ultra‑processed foods due to its colour enhancing properties. Here are some specific uses:

• Soft drinks: It gives beverages a bright yellow hue, making them more visually appealing to consumers.
• Confectionery: Used in candies, chewing gum and sweets to provide a consistent and vibrant color.
• Snacks: enhances the appearance of snacks such as chips and extruded snacks, making them more attractive.
• Bakery: Used in cakes, pastries and other bakery products to achieve the desired yellow colour.
• Desserts: It is added to jellies, puddings and ice creams to improve visual appearance.

Effects on human health

Although quinoline yellow is approved for use in many countries, there are health considerations and potential risks associated with its consumption:

• Allergic reactions: some individuals may experience allergic reactions, including skin rashes and itching.
• Hyperactivity: There is evidence to suggest that artificial food dyes, including quinoline yellow, may exacerbate hyperactivity in children.
• Regulatory limits: Different countries have set different acceptable daily intakes (ADIs) for quinoline yellow. Exceeding these limits may pose health risks. In the United States, quinoline yellow is not approved as a food additive by the FDA. It is banned in Norway for use in food. In Australia and New Zealand, its use is restricted and products containing it must carry a warning label if levels exceed certain limits.
• Controversy and research: Ongoing research is still investigating the potential long‑term health effects of synthetic food colours, including their association with behavioural problems and other health risks.

Sources

1. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). (2009). Scientific Opinion on the re‑evaluation of Quinoline Yellow (E 104) as a food additive. Retrieved from EFSA Journal.
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2020). Color Additives: FDA's Regulatory Process and Historical Perspectives. Retrieved from FDA website.
3. Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI). (2010). Food Dyes: A Rainbow of Risks. Retrieved from CSPI report.
4. World Health Organization (WHO). (2011). Evaluation of Certain Food Additives: Seventy‑fourth Report of the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives.