Question

Which of the following is not a natural color?

• A. Annatto
• B. Sunset Yellow
• C. Caramel
• D. Carotene

Hint:

Sunset Yellow FCF is a synthetic azo dye. Annatto, caramel, and carotene are natural pigments commonly used in dairy products.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Food colorants are added to dairy and other food products to improve appearance, maintain consistency, and restore color lost during processing.
These colorants are classified as either natural colors (derived from biological or mineral sources) or synthetic colors (produced through chemical synthesis).
Synthetic colors are highly regulated coal-tar dyes that must meet strict purity and safety standards.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the listed food colors:
Annatto (A) is a natural carotenoid-based yellow-orange color extracted from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana), commonly used in cheese and butter.
Sunset Yellow (B) is a synthetic, petroleum-derived azo dye (specifically Disodium 6-hydroxy-5-[(4-sulfophenyl)azo]-2-naphthalenesulfonate), which is chemically synthesized and is not found in nature.
Caramel (C) is a natural-identical color produced by the controlled heat treatment of carbohydrates (caramelization).
Carotene (D) is a natural yellow-orange pigment widely distributed in plants, especially carrots, and is a major natural pigment in milk fat.
Therefore, Sunset Yellow is a synthetic food color, not a natural color.

Step 3: Final Answer
Sunset Yellow is not a natural color; it is a synthetic food colorant.