Reseda luteola (Reseda luteola)

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

Reseda Luteola is a plant also known by many other names such as Sunset Yellow FCF, Orange Yellow S, E 110, Fd&c Yellow No. 6, Gelborange S, 2-Hydroxy-1-(4-Sulfonato-Phenylazo)-6-Naphthalin-Sulfonate, Jaune Orange S, Yellow 6 Lake, Disodium 6-hydroxy-5-[(4-sulphonatophenyl)azo]naphthalene-2-sulphonate. This plant is particularly known for its ability to dye, a characteristic property that predetermines its wide use in both natural and artificial environments.

The powder from the spade dye is used as an E110 food colouring agent, which gives a vivid orange or yellow colour to products. This colouring agent is widely used in food production to colour confectionery, beverages, bakery products, ice creams, canned fruit and vegetables, senfes, jams, but also, for example, in some types of cheese. Furthermore, this pigment is used in the cosmetics industry for the production of mascara, eye shadow, lipstick and other cosmetic products. Manufacturers of varnishes and chalks use it to achieve an intense orange or yellow colour. Rye dye pigment is also used in the textile industry to dye fabrics and fibres. Interestingly, this pigment is also used in the production of certain types of inks and dyes for art paintings. Thus, in addition to its exceptional colour, the dye offers a wide range of applications in various areas of industry.