
Metanil Yellow is a synthetic azo dye commonly used in various industries. It has been widely used in textiles, paper, and leather industries. Here is a detailed specification of its chemical data and various names:

Common Names
- Metanil Yellow
- Acid Yellow 36
- CI 13065 (Color Index Number)
- Azo Yellow
- Sodium Metanil Yellow
Chemical Identifiers
- CAS Number: 587-98-4
Physical and Chemical Properties Appearance
Appearance: Yellow crystalline powder
Solubility: Soluble in water and ethanol
Melting Point: Decomposes before melting
pH: Typically around 7 (neutral)
Applications Metanil Yellow is primarily used for
Metanil Yellow is primarily used for:
Coloring textiles, paper, and leather
Staining in microbiological and histological applications
Dyeing wool, silk, and nylon
Metanil Yellow
A common synthetic azo dye in many different sectors is Metanil yellow. Its vivid yellow hue and affordability have made it a popular choice, but its possible health hazards and improper use in food goods have also caused a great deal of debate. To provide readers a thorough grasp of this chemical colour, this blog explores its characteristics, uses, dangers, and legal situation.
Metanil Yellow: what is that?
Metanil Yellow is an azo dye and it is a member of a class of synthetic natural products that differ by its possession of an azo group (-N=N-). Its chemical name is sodium 3-[(4-anilinophenyl)azo]benzenesulfonate. It is mostly used to dye paper, leather, and textiles.It is a cost-effective choice for industrial applications due to its vivid yellow colour and simplicity of production.
Uses for Metanil Yellow
- The Textile Sector
- The Leather Sector
- The Paper Sector
Alternatives to Yellow Metanil
Industries are increasingly looking to safer and more environmentally friendly substitutes to solve the health issues related to Metanil Yellow. Among them are:
Natural Colours Natural dyes like annatto, saffron, and turmeric, which come from both animal and plant sources, offer safe and environmentally responsible food and textile colouring alternatives.
Artificial Food-Grade Colouring ingredients Synthetic dyes that have been approved for use in food goods, like sunset yellow and tartrazine, must meet safety standards.
Sustainable Synthetic Dyes Eco-friendly synthetic dyes have been more and more popular in the paper and garment sectors as they reduce the threats to health and the environment.
In conclusion
Although there are many industrial uses for the synthetic colour metanil yellow, its unapproved usage in food goods presents significant health concerns. Although awareness campaigns and regulatory actions have somewhat reduced its abuse, ongoing efforts are required to completely eradicate this practice. To protect consumer health and the sustainability of the environment, industries must prioritise safer alternatives and follow safety regulations.
Being watchful and knowledgeable about the origins and calibre of the goods we use as consumers can have an impact. A better and more secure future can be achieved by choosing trustworthy brands and disclosing any suspected usage of dangerous colours like Metanil Yellow.