The Hidden Dangers of Sunset Yellow: How E110 Impacts Our Health
"Awareness is the first step of freedom; when you know what poisons your plate, you reclaim the right to nourish your life." ~ Adarsh Singh
Food is not only fuel for the body but also nourishment for the mind and soul. Yet, in today’s world of commercialization and mass production, food is often painted with artificial colors to look more vibrant, appealing, and marketable. Among these, E110, also known as Sunset Yellow FCF or Orange Yellow S, is one of the most widely used synthetic dyes. It gives food a bright orange-yellow glow, but behind its visual appeal lies a darker reality.
This blog is an exploration of E110, its presence in Indian foods, its harmful health effects, and how we can protect ourselves and our families.
"The color of food should come from nature, not chemicals pretending to be nature." ~ Adarsh Singh
Understanding E110: What It Really Is
E110 is a synthetic azo dye, created in laboratories to mimic the golden-orange tones of natural ingredients like saffron, turmeric, and annatto. Its purpose is simple: to make food look richer and more tempting.
Full Name: Sunset Yellow FCF (Food, Cosmetics, and Pharmaceuticals)
Other Name: Orange Yellow S
E Number: E110
Appearance: Bright orange to yellow shade
Category: Synthetic petroleum-derived azo dye
It is cheap to manufacture, highly stable in processed foods, and enhances the attractiveness of packaged items. But its artificial origin also brings a host of problems that natural ingredients would never cause.
Where is E110 Found in India?
In India, E110 is extremely common because bright orange and yellow colors are linked to flavors like mango, orange, kesar, and pista. Many products, especially those marketed to children, rely on it.
Here are popular Indian products that often contain E110:
Confectionery & Sweets
Candies & Toffees: Alpenliebe, Pulse Orange Candy, Lacto King, local orange-flavored toffees.
Gummies & Jellies: Boomer Jelly, Fruittella, Alpenliebe Juzt Jelly (orange/mango variants).
Indian Sweets (Packaged): Haldiram’s Soan Papdi (orange-tinted batches), Bikano Besan Ladoo, and certain packaged halwas.
Beverages
Soft Drinks: Fanta, Mirinda, Slice, Appy Fizz Orange, PepsiCo Tropicana (orange variants).
Powdered Drink Mixes: Tang (orange, mango), Rasna (orange, mango), Kool-Aid imported variants.
Syrups & Squashes: Rooh Afza (limited mango/orange seasonal editions), Kissan Squash Orange.
Dairy & Desserts
Ice Creams: Kwality Walls Mango Dolly, Cornetto Butterscotch, Amul Mango Duet, Vadilal Kesar Pista Ice Cream.
Custard Powders: Brown & Polson (vanilla and kesar flavors).
Flavored Yogurts: Epigamia Mango Greek Yogurt, Nestlé A+ Mango Dahi.
Kulfi (Packaged): Haldiram’s Kesar Kulfi, Mother Dairy Kulfi (mango flavor).
Snacks & Processed Foods
Instant Noodles: Maggi Masala (flavor enhancer), Top Ramen Curry Masala.
Namkeens: Haldiram’s Aloo Bhujia, Bikaji Bhujia, Balaji Masala Wafers.
Chips: Lays Magic Masala, Bingo Mad Angles Mango Chili, Uncle Chipps Spicy Treat.
Ready-to-Eat Soups: Knorr Hot & Sour Soup, Knorr Tomato Soup.
Jams, Pickles & Preserves
Jams: Kissan Orange Jam, Mapro Mixed Fruit Jam, Tropolite Fruit Spreads.
Pickles: Mother’s Recipe Mango Pickle, Priya Mango Pickle, Tops Mango Pickle.
Fruit Preserves: Dabur Honey Fruit Spread (orange-mango flavor).
These examples are not exhaustive but provide a clear picture of how widespread E110 is in Indian foods.
Health Impacts of E110
While E110 may give food a vibrant appearance, its impact on health is far from beautiful. Scientific studies, regulatory warnings, and real-life experiences highlight a concerning picture.
1. Allergic Reactions
E110 can trigger skin rashes, itching, swelling, and hives. People sensitive to aspirin or those with asthma are particularly vulnerable.
2. Hyperactivity in Children
The famous Southampton Study (2007, UK) found that artificial colors like E110, combined with preservatives, increase hyperactivity and attention problems in children.
This led the EU to mandate a warning label on products containing E110:
"May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children."
3. Respiratory Problems
Asthmatics often experience wheezing, nasal congestion, and breathing difficulties when exposed to azo dyes like E110.
4. Digestive Issues
Some people suffer from diarrhea, abdominal pain, and indigestion after consuming foods containing Sunset Yellow.
5. Long-Term Concerns
Although conclusive evidence in humans is limited, animal studies suggest possible DNA damage and carcinogenic risks with prolonged exposure. Continuous intake of synthetic dyes builds up in the body and may lead to chronic health concerns.
"What looks appealing to the eyes may silently poison the body." ~ Adarsh Singh
Natural Alternatives to E110
The good news is that vibrant colors can come from nature itself. Many traditional Indian ingredients provide the same appeal without the risks.
Turmeric (Haldi): Deep yellow color, also medicinal.
Saffron (Kesar): Golden yellow with aroma and richness.
Annatto Seeds: Orange-red natural dye used in cheese and butter.
Paprika & Red Chili Extract: For deep orange-red hues.
Carrot & Pumpkin Extracts: Naturally orange and nutrient-rich.
Indian households have always relied on these natural colors. Only the rise of cheap synthetic dyes replaced them in mass production.
"Colors of health are found in nature’s basket, not in a laboratory’s bottle." ~ Adarsh Singh
Why Awareness Matters
In India, food regulations are less strict compared to the EU. While E110 is allowed, manufacturers often push the limits, and labels are either hidden or ignored by consumers. Many parents unknowingly give children candies, drinks, and snacks loaded with E110, thinking they are harmless treats.
Awareness is the first step to change. By understanding what E110 is, where it is found, and its impact on health, we can make smarter choices.
How to Protect Yourself
1. Read Labels Carefully
Look for E110, Sunset Yellow FCF, or Orange Yellow S on packaging.
2. Limit Processed Foods
Most products containing E110 are heavily processed snacks, sweets, or drinks.
3. Choose Natural & Homemade
Prepare sweets, drinks, and pickles at home using natural ingredients.
4. Educate Children
Teach kids that bright colors in candy or drinks don’t mean health or quality.
5. Demand Transparency
Push brands and policymakers for clearer labeling and safer food choices.
E110, or Sunset Yellow, is a reminder that not all that shines is gold. The food industry thrives on appearances, but consumers must look beyond the color and understand the reality hidden inside the packet.
By choosing natural over artificial, awareness over ignorance, and health over convenience, we take back control over what we put into our bodies.
"Health is not painted in artificial shades; it is woven in the natural colors of life." ~ Adarsh Singh
Mon Oct 6, 2025
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