A study by McCann et al. (2007) concluded that exposure to two mixtures of four synthetic colours plus a sodium benzoate preservative in the diet—one of them, Mix A containing Tartrazine—resulted in increased hyperactivity in 8- to 9-year-old and 3-year-old children in the general population.
Does tartrazine Cause ADHD?
Food colours linked to hyperactivity
According to research by the Food Standards Agency, the 6 food colours most closely linked to hyperactivity in children are: E102 (tartrazine) E104 (quinoline yellow)
What are the side effects of tartrazine?
Tartrazine hypersensitivity reactions include headaches, asthma attacks, itching or hives, insomnia, and hyperactivity. Tartrazine is often associated with allergies and hypersensitivity reactions, particularly in patients with asthma or aspirin intolerance.