Simultaneous determination of five mixed colorants by derivative voltammetry

A method for the simultaneous determination of 5 different mixed synthetic colorants(Amaranth,Tartrazine,Sunset Yellow,Ponceau 4R,Erythrosine) with differential voltammetry was reported.The method has characteristics of simpleness and high sensitivity.It can be applied to determine the contents of the mixed food colorants directly without separation.The reaction mechanism of synthetic colorants on hanging mercury electrode is also discussed.