Group: E100–E199 (colours)
E102 is a food additive approved by the European Union (EU). It is used as a synthetic colouring agent in food products. The common name for E102 is Tartrazine. E102 gives a yellow colour to food products and is very soluble in water. The colouring is derived from coal tar.
The colouring E102 has been thought to worsen some symptoms of asthma and bring about allergic reactions in many people, such as migraines and skin irritation.
E102 has also been known to cause hyperactivity and is banned in Norway and Austria.