Is E110 halal?

What is E110?

Sunset Yellow FCF is a synthetic orange-yellow azo dye. It is made by coupling two petrochemical-derived aromatic compounds, then isolated and dried as a sodium salt. It gives a bright orange shade that holds up well to light and heat.

Why it's marked “Generally halal”

It is fully synthetic, made from petrochemical and mineral raw materials, so no animal, insect or alcohol source is involved and it is generally treated as halal. Any doubt would come from the rest of the product rather than from the dye, for example a carrier in a liquid colour blend or a non-halal ingredient in the recipe.

How to check the label

No special check is needed for the dye. For complete assurance about any carriers in a colour blend, look for a halal certificate on the finished product or ask the manufacturer.

Where you'll find it

• orange soft drinks
• sweets
• desserts
• snack foods
• sauces

Good to know

• In the EU and UK, foods and drinks containing it must carry the warning “may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children”.
• EFSA cut its acceptable daily intake to a temporary 1 mg per kg of body weight in 2009, then set 4 mg/kg in 2014 after new studies.
• Other names include Orange Yellow S and, in the US, FD&C Yellow No. 6.

Similar additives

• E102 Tartrazine Generally halal
• E124 Ponceau 4R Generally halal
• E129 Allura Red AC Generally halal
• E133 Brilliant Blue FCF Generally halal
• E200 Sorbic acid Generally halal
• E202 Potassium sorbate Generally halal

See all 89 E-numbers in the halal checker

This list describes where additives usually come from. It isn't a religious ruling, and manufacturers can change their sources. Last reviewed: 14 October 2026.

Sources

1. EFSA re-evaluation of Sunset Yellow FCF (E 110) (2009)
2. EFSA reconsideration of the ADI for Sunset Yellow FCF (2014)
3. UK Food Standards Agency: food additives

Frequently asked questions