CI 19140
Commonly Found In
Overview
CI 19140 is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for COLORANT. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Tartrazine, FD&C Yellow No. 5, Yellow 5, Food Yellow 4, E102, Acid Yellow 23
Key Benefits
CI 19140 (Tartrazine) provides no skin benefits. It functions solely as a yellow colorant in cosmetic formulations.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Water-soluble azo dye used as colorant; no comedogenic potential.
Source: CIR Safety Assessment β Yellow 5 (CI 19140)
Irritancy Rating
Generally well-tolerated; known sensitizer in susceptible individuals; cross-reactivity with aspirin-sensitive patients documented.
Source: EU SCCS/1199/08 β Opinion on CI 19140
Typical Use Concentration
Range
Up to regulatory colorant limits
Optimal
Minimum needed for desired color
Used at minimum effective concentrations for target coloration.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Use With Caution
Potential hypersensitivity in aspirin-sensitive individuals has been documented, though this is primarily a concern for oral ingestion (food/supplements), not topical cosmetic use. EU bans it in certain cosmetic applications (Annex IV/44) and restricts it in others.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Restricted | - | Follows EU regulations (IV/44 (CI 19140) III/189 (Acid Yellow 23; Acid Yellow 23 Aluminum lake)) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU has a complex regulatory status for CI 19140 β banned in some applications (IV/44) and restricted in others (III/189 for acid yellow 23 aluminum lake form). US FDA certifies it as FD&C Yellow No. 5 for approved uses and requires it to be listed by name on labels due to allergy potential.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 193 ingredients in the COLORANT category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Synthetic azo dye. Does not occur naturally.
π How It's Made
Synthesized from coal tar derivatives through diazotization. Also known as Tartrazine or Yellow 5.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Yellow colorant. Can cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to aspirin. One of the most controversial food dyes in the US.
π¬ Other Applications
Food coloring (E102) in beverages, candy, and pharmaceuticals. Requires warning label in EU foods.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Tartrazine can cause allergic reactions in people with aspirin hypersensitivity (about 0.12% of the population)
- β’ Banned in Austria and Norway for food use, but allowed in most other countries
- β’ Must be listed by name on labels in the EU rather than as a generic 'color' due to allergy concerns
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β Annex IV/44, III/189
- β’ FDA β FD&C Yellow No. 5 listing
- β’ EFSA opinion on tartrazine (E102)
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
CHROMIUM
LEAD ACETATE
SILVER NITRATE
ALUMINUM SILICATE
ALUMINUM STEARATE
BARIUM SULFATE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is CI 19140 banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning CI 19140 under IV/44 (CI 19140) III/189 (Acid Yellow 23; Acid Yellow 23 Aluminum lake) due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is CI 19140 banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits CI 19140 (IV/44 (CI 19140) III/189 (Acid Yellow 23; Acid Yellow 23 Aluminum lake)) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is CI 19140 used for in cosmetics?
CI 19140 is primarily used for colorant in cosmetic products. It also serves as hair dyeing. The ingredient is commonly found in makeup products, hair dyes, and colored cosmetics.
Which countries regulate CI 19140?
CI 19140 is banned in EU. It has concentration limits or usage restrictions in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to CI 19140?
Due to regulatory restrictions on CI 19140, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For colorant, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.