EFSA Confirms Tartrazine Safe and Effective for Freshwater Fish Baits

On June 6, 2025, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published a scientific opinion on the use of tartrazine as a feed additive for freshwater fish baits. The assessment, requested by the European Commission, confirmed that tartrazine is both safe and effective under the proposed usage conditions.

Tartrazine, a sensory additive, can be used as a colorant at a maximum level of 30 mg/kg in complementary feed. It is designed to color fishing baits and attract fish in freshwater environments like ponds and rivers, primarily for recreational and competitive fishing, but not for aquaculture purposes.

The EFSA’s FEEDAP Panel evaluated its safety and efficacy. Key findings include:

• Safety: The additive poses no risks to freshwater fish, consumers, or the environment under the recommended usage. However, user safety concerns were noted, as tartrazine is a dermal and respiratory sensitizer, with risks of inhalation or skin exposure.
• Efficacy: Based on new data, the panel confirmed that tartrazine is effective in coloring fish baits, meeting its intended purpose.

This conclusion underscores tartrazine’s potential to enhance bait performance while maintaining safety for both target species and the environment.