Cream Soda

What it is. A synthetic lemon yellow dye.

Why it is used. Colours soft drinks, sweets, sauces and snacks.

What the evidence says. One of the Southampton Six colours linked in a 2007 UK study to increased hyperactivity in some children. The effect is modest and does not affect every child, but it was enough for a mandatory on pack warning.

UK and EU require the label to warn it may affect activity and attention in children. Permitted in the US without that warning.

Assessed against UK FSA, EFSA. Full entry for E102

What it is. A preservative that stops yeasts, moulds and some bacteria growing in acidic foods.

Why it is used. Used in soft drinks, sauces, pickles and dressings.

What the evidence says. EFSA re-evaluated it in 2016 and kept an acceptable daily intake, with normal exposure below it. The known issue is specific: in acidic drinks that also contain vitamin C, benzoate can form small amounts of benzene, so manufacturers reformulated to avoid the combination. It was also present in the drink mixes used in the Southampton hyperactivity study, though the warning requirement that followed applies to the colours rather than to benzoate.

Permitted with maximum levels in the foods where it is allowed.

Assessed against EFSA, UK FSA. Full entry for E211

What it is. A mild acid found naturally in citrus fruit, made commercially by fermentation.

Why it is used. Adds tartness, balances flavour and helps preserve. One of the most used additives in food.

What the evidence says. Safe at food levels. No credible health concern for the additive itself.

Permitted freely.

Assessed against EFSA, JECFA. Full entry for E330