Quinoline yellow
Learn what Quinoline yellow (E104) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Quinoline yellow?
A synthetic non-azo colorant. It imparts a yellow-green color and is allowed to be used in any type of food (alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, meat products, dairy, eggs, vegetables, fruits, cereals, sweets, etc.), except for those intended for infants and young children. It can be used alone or in combination with other colorants in the mentioned quantities.
Why is Quinoline yellow added to food?
Quinoline yellow (E104) is a colorant commonly found in: Alcoholic beverages, sweets, animal products.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for humans is up to 10 mg/kg body weight.
Is Quinoline yellow safe?
Low concern
No known side effects at the concentrations used, although E104 may act as a histamine liberator. It is an iodine-based compound, which may cause thyroid gland disturbances.
Is Quinoline yellow banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Quinoline yellow okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Quinoline yellow
- Alcoholic beverages
- sweets
- animal products
How to spot Quinoline yellow on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E104
- Quinoline yellow
Common misspellings to watch for:
- qulnoline yellow
- quinoline yellow
- quinollne yellow
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to artificial colorants. • Excessive consumption may lead to adverse effects on behavior and attention in children, including hyperactivity and concentration difficulties. • May cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating and abdominal cramps. • People with asthma or sensitivity to sulfites should avoid this colorant.
Also known as
- qulnoline yellow
- quinoline yellow
- quinollne yellow
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Quinoline yellow? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E104 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Quinoline yellow
- Is Quinoline yellow safe to eat?
- No known side effects at the concentrations used, although E104 may act as a histamine liberator. It is an iodine-based compound, which may cause thyroid gland disturbances.
- Is Quinoline yellow banned anywhere?
- Quinoline yellow is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Quinoline yellow safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Quinoline yellow on a food label?
- Look for E104, Quinoline yellow in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: qulnoline yellow, quinoline yellow, quinollne yellow.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.