yellow no. 5
C1/C2Formal / Technical / Regulatory
Definition
Meaning
A specific synthetic food color additive, also known as Tartrazine.
A code name for a common yellow dye used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Often cited in allergen warnings.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Refers strictly to the chemical additive. Its usage implies discussions of food safety, regulations, labeling, or allergies.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Primarily identical. In the UK, it may also be referred to by its E number, 'E102'.
Connotations
Carries the same connotations of potential allergenicity and artificiality in both dialects.
Frequency
Equally frequent in formal/regulatory contexts in both regions. Less common in casual conversation.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The [product] contains Yellow No. 5.A [person] is sensitive to Yellow No. 5.Check for Yellow No. 5 in the [ingredient list].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None. It is a technical term.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in product development, labeling compliance, and supply chain management for food/cosmetics.
Academic
Appears in research papers on food additives, allergology, and public health.
Everyday
Used when reading food labels or discussing dietary restrictions.
Technical
Standard term in food science, regulatory documents, and chemistry.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The product is coloured with Yellow No. 5.
- Manufacturers must declare if they use Yellow No. 5.
American English
- The product is colored with Yellow No. 5.
- The candy has been dyed using Yellow No. 5.
adjective
British English
- The Yellow No. 5 content is minimal.
- Look for the Yellow No. 5 warning on the label.
American English
- There is a Yellow No. 5 allergen statement.
- This is a Yellow No. 5-free product.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- This drink has Yellow No. 5 in it.
- I can't eat that because I'm allergic to Yellow No. 5.
- The new regulations require clearer labeling for additives like Yellow No. 5.
- While the FDA considers Yellow No. 5 safe for the general population, it mandates warning labels due to its established role in provoking urticaria and asthma in a sensitive subset.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a yellow traffic sign (number 5) warning you to check ingredients.
Conceptual Metaphor
CHEMICAL ADDITIVES ARE CODE NAMES.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not translate 'No.' as 'нет'. It stands for 'Number'.
- The phrase is a fixed regulatory term; a direct translation 'жёлтый номер 5' would not be understood.
- The equivalent Russian term in contexts of imported goods is often 'Тартразин' or 'Е102'.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrectly writing 'Yellow No.5' without spaces.
- Using 'Yellow Number Five' in formal regulatory writing instead of the standard 'Yellow No. 5'.
- Confusing it with other color additives like 'Yellow No. 6'.
Practice
Quiz
In the UK, Yellow No. 5 is more commonly known by what designation on ingredient lists?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 'Yellow No. 5' is the common name for the synthetic dye Tartrazine.
It is a known allergen for a small percentage of the population and can trigger reactions like hives or asthma in sensitive individuals.
It is used in sodas, candy, chips, cereals, cosmetics like shampoo, and some medications to provide a bright yellow color.
It is not banned in the US or EU, but its use is restricted in some countries (like Norway historically), and it requires specific warning labels in many regions.