Why is nacho cheese yellow?

The bright yellow color of nacho cheese is due to the addition of artificial food coloring. The most commonly used food coloring is a yellow dye called Tartrazine, which is also known as Yellow #5. Tartrazine is a synthetic dye that is derived from coal tar and is widely used in the food industry to enhance the color of various products, including snacks, candies, and beverages.

The use of artificial food coloring, including Tartrazine, is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). These regulatory bodies evaluate the safety of food additives and ensure that they are used within safe levels.

While Tartrazine is generally considered safe for consumption, it has been associated with certain adverse reactions in some individuals, such as allergic reactions and hyperactivity. However, it's important to note that these reactions are relatively rare, and the majority of people can consume foods containing Tartrazine without any issues.

Nacho cheese may also derive its yellow color from natural sources, such as annatto, a plant-based food coloring obtained from the seeds of the achiote tree. However, the bright yellow color commonly associated with nacho cheese is typically achieved through the use of artificial food coloring.