Quinoline Yellow WS has not been associated with any significant long-term toxicity, is not genotoxic or carcinogenic and there is no evidence of adverse effects on reproduction or development. Food colorants in general have been the subject of much scrutiny for their effect on health.
Possible cause of hyperactivity Since the 1970s and the well-publicized advocacy of
Benjamin Feingold, there has been public concern that food colorings may cause
ADHD-like behavior in children. These concerns have led the U.S. FDA and other food safety authorities to regularly review the scientific literature, and led the UK FSA to commission a study by researchers at the
University of Southampton to assess the effect of a mixture of six food dyes (
Tartrazine,
Allura Red,
Ponceau 4R, Quinoline Yellow WS,
Sunset Yellow FCF and
Carmoisine (dubbed the "Southampton 6")) and
sodium benzoate (a preservative) on children in the general population, who consumed them in beverages; the study published in 2007. The study found "a possible link between the consumption of these artificial colours and a sodium benzoate preservative and increased hyperactivity" in the children; On the basis of other evidence the EFSA also reduced the
acceptable daily intake (ADI) from 10 to 0.5 mg/kg. It is possible that certain food coloring may act as a trigger in those who are genetically predisposed, but the evidence is weak. ==References==