E104 - Chinolingelb

Origin

Quinoline Yellow is a synthetic organic dye. There are two forms: Quinoline Yellow WS (water-soluble) and Quinoline Yellow SS (spirit-soluble). Quinoline Yellow WS is a mixture of disulfonates, primarily sodium 2-(2-quinolyl)indan-1,3-dione disulfonate, while Quinoline Yellow SS is primarily 2-(2-quinolyl)indan-1,3-dione. It is derived from coal tar.

Usage

Quinoline Yellow is used as a food coloring agent, providing a bright yellow hue. It is commonly found in a variety of food products, including sweets, desserts, smoked haddock, scotch eggs, ice cream, sherbet, fruit juice, and snack foods. It is also used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. The spirit-soluble form is used in lacquers, varnishes, and certain polymers. It is also used as a dye in some textiles.

Side Effects

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Quinoline Yellow, although these are relatively rare. Reported symptoms include skin rashes, itching, and, in very rare cases, anaphylaxis. There is some concern that Quinoline Yellow may act as a histamine liberator, potentially exacerbating symptoms in individuals with histamine intolerance. Studies have shown that Quinoline Yellow can cause hyperactivity in some children when mixed with other artificial colors and benzoate preservatives. The Scientific Committee for Food established a group ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake) of 0-0.5 mg/kg body weight for Quinoline Yellow.