What Is Sunset Yellow FCF? Is the Orange Color in Thai Tea Really Harmful?

August 15, 2025

5 minutes

There may be questions about the bright orange Thai tea that many people love, such as where does the color come from and what is “sunset yellow FCF”? Many may not yet know that the appetizing color may be linked to certain chemicals worth being aware of before consuming.

In this article, we will introduce you to sunset yellow FCF in detail, with answers to whether it is harmful and whether it should be avoided.

If the article is too long, you can choose a topic to read:

What is sunset yellow FCF?
Why does Thai tea have a bright orange color?
Is sunset yellow FCF harmful?
How to know if a product contains Sunset Yellow FCF
Is Sunset Yellow FCF harmful, should it be avoided?

What is sunset yellow FCF?

Sunset yellow FCF (chemical name: E110) is a synthetic color in the group of azo dye, commonly used in the food and beverage industry because it gives a bright orange shade similar to a “sunset,” hence the name “sunset yellow.”

For anyone wondering what the word yellow refers to in this name, it refers to the color shade of the substance, which is used in many products such as:

Iced tea, Thai tea
Orange juice
Jelly, sweets
Snacks
Certain medicines and supplements

Why does Thai tea have a bright orange color?

Although traditional Thai tea originated from natural tea leaves and spices such as star anise or cinnamon, which give a natural dark color, today many manufacturers use synthetic colors such as sunset yellow FCF to achieve a brighter, more uniform, and more attractive appearance.

The unique feature of Thai tea, different from tea in other countries, is its distinctive deep orange color. This does not come only from tea leaves but from adding food coloring into the dry tea powder during the production stage. Manufacturers usually use a combination of yellow and red colorings to achieve the signature orange of Thai tea and to make the drink look more appealing.

Adding food coloring directly into the dried tea leaves is a widespread and popular practice among Thai tea producers because it ensures consistency in both color and product appearance.

If you are wondering whether the color of Thai tea affects its smell or taste, the answer is “no.” Food coloring does not directly affect the taste of Thai tea. The intensity of color depends on the amount of coloring used and other ingredients such as milk or non-dairy creamer. If more milk is added, the tea color looks lighter and gives a smoother taste.

Is sunset yellow FCF harmful?

“Is sunset yellow FCF harmful??” is a question that consumers should understand thoroughly. Even though it is a substance authorized for use in food in many countries, including Thailand, there are precautions, especially for children or those with allergies to certain substances.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) set a safe intake level at no more than 4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day (acceptable daily intake: ADI).

The Thailand Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) allows sunset yellow FCF in food under strict conditions, such as:

Prohibited in food for infants and young children.
The substance name must be clearly shown on product labels.
Only allowed in safe amounts as defined by standards.

Although safe for the general population when used in appropriate amounts, reports show that

Some children may be sensitive to azo dyes, with effects such as hyperactivity or restlessness.
People allergic to certain coloring agents may develop irritation or rashes.

How to know if a product contains sunset yellow FCF

Check the nutrition label or ingredients, which may state

Sunset yellow FCF
E110
Synthetic orange colour
Azo synthetic colour

If you have a history of color allergies or want to avoid additives, choose products labelled “no artificial color” or “natural color only.” But if you love Thai tea and want to avoid synthetic coloring, look for drinks made with natural coloring such as:

Color from carrot or beta carotene
Color from turmeric
Color from safflower or pandan

Some organic Thai tea shops also choose natural ingredients to bring out authentic flavor and provide colors that are gentler on the body.

Is sunset yellow FCF harmful, should it be avoided?

Sunset yellow FCF is a coloring substance permitted for use in food in many countries, including Thailand. When used properly and within safe limits, it is considered safe for the general population. However, for some who may be sensitive to it, or for parents with young children aged 3–5 years, it is best to avoid it for long-term safety.

Recommendations

Read labels before buying food or ready-made Thai tea
Choose products without color additives or those using natural colors
Being “aware” is better than being “alarmed,” and helps you control your consumption wisely

If you love Thai tea but want to enjoy it safely every day… choosing Thai tea made from natural ingredients is another option that is both healthy and still offers the familiar fragrant and smooth taste 🍵

But do not forget that the most important thing is being prepared for the unexpected. Having health insurance with good coverage helps us live confidently, knowing that if illness or health problems occur, medical costs can still be managed.

For more information:

☑️ Call Tel. 1766, available 24/7.

☑️ Contact a Muang Thai Life Assurance agent/service channel.