Most colorants used in foods are considered safe by the FDA, However, the issue of yellow food dye allergy is one that is getting quite a bit of attention lately. This yellow dye is called tartrazine and/or Yellow FD&C No. 5. This one has been shown to cause adverse reactions like hives and itching in a small percent of the population. The dyes and colorants used in foods and other products must be listed on the label according to U.S. laws o that it becomes very easy for consumers to determine whether or not a product contains this yellow dye.

Testing for food allergies and how it is done is very important for one to feel suspicion of having this kind of health problem, food allergies. Approximately three percent of the American population suffers from food allergies. Many more suffer from food sensitivity and intolerance. It can be difficult for a patient and even their physician to tell the difference between an allergy and a sensitivity and/or intolerance. This is why testing for food allergies are so important if they are suspected. Symptoms of food allergies range from mild to life threatening. Symptoms include itching, rash, hives, gastrointestinal upset, respiratory distress, dramatic drop in blood pressure, migraine, and a myriad of other symptoms.