Exploring Dyslipidaemia, Oxidative Stress, and Reproductive Endocrine Disruption in Tartrazine and Carmoisine Azo Dyes-Exposed Rats: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: This study is a systematic review focusing on the effects of tartrazine and carmoisine azo dyes on lipid, oxidative stress, and reproductive endocrine disruptions in rats. Method: We systematically reviewed studies published between 1972 and 2026 using keywords and short phrases from Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Global Health, and BIOSIS. No restrictions were placed on language or study type. Results: The studies revealed that 54%, 28%, and 18% of the papers reviewed were done on tartrazine, carmoisine, and mixtures of tartrazine and carmoisine. It was also indicated that 31%, 30%, and 39% of the studies were on lipids, endocrine disruption, and oxidative stress, respectively. Meanwhile 61%, 40%, 31% were on acute, sub-acute, and chronic studies. Exposure duration of less than or up to 30 days had the highest proportion of studies, indicating 35% and 26% for ADI and high dosage exposures, respectively.  The period of exposure ranged from 48 hours to 200 days, while the dose of exposure ranged between 2mg/kg and 22.5g/kg. Conclusion: The review showed that tartrazine, carmoisine, or their mixtures are not associated with reproductive endocrine disruption at ADI doses within 30 days of exposure. However, allergic reactions were revealed. Moreover, it was revealed that at ADI above 60 days, dyslipidaemia, depletion of antioxidant enzymes, and lipid peroxidation were observed, particularly in studies where doses higher than ADI were used between 21 and 200 days.  Therefore, this study revealed the urgent need for the enforcement of laws and regulations regarding the use of these dyes as prescribed in food and drinks, as well as an effective educational campaign against the use, abuse, and excessive consumption of these azo dyes.