Food dyes have long been linked to hyperactivity. But many may not know that they may also pose other health risks.
Dyeing agents can be found everywhere from ice cream and cereal boxes, snack bars and school supplies – it is no wonder many parents wish to avoid them!
Red 3
Finding Valentine candy and snacks without dye is easier than you may think, especially chocolate products like Russell Stover’s regular and sugar-free Chocolate Candy Gems from Wilton; Lindt red pralines; as well as many seasonal decorative products like sprinkles or nonpareils designed for baking or dipping items are dye-free.
Studies show that all synthetic dyes can have an adverse effect on children’s behavior, but CSPI is particularly concerned about Red 3 as it has been linked with cancer in lab animals and should have been tackled decades ago by the FDA. California passed a law banning this additive in 2023 as other states followed suit, yet while we celebrate California and others for doing their part to address the problem through state laws alone, the FDA must follow through on its 2008 petition and ban all eight approved artificial colors simultaneously.
Red 40
Even though Red 40 is approved by the FDA to be used in various foods, studies have linked its consumption with negative health impacts for children, including hyperactivity, irritability and attention issues. Furthermore, allergic reactions such as itchy skin or hives have been reported.
Synthetic dyes such as Red 40 can be found in many processed food and over-the-counter medications, so it’s essential that consumers read labels in order to stay away from this synthetic coloring agent.
Natural dyes offer a great alternative. Beet juice provides vibrant red hues in sauces or pastries. Furthermore, many brands now offer food dye-free options, which may contain more natural ingredients that help those with allergies or sensitivities. Try eliminating artificial dyes and see if your children’s behavior improves!
Yellow 5
Many are aware that synthetic dyes are harmful, yet many don’t realize the extent to which they pose serious physical risk. According to research compiled by the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), dyes have been linked with hyperactivity, ADHD and other behavioral problems among children; additionally they may cause allergy reactions like hives, asthma or more in those sensitive individuals who come in contact with them.
Yellow 5 (tartrazine) is one of the most frequently used artificial food dyes. Products containing it will usually list it as an ingredient on their ingredients list; unlike most azo food dyes, tartrazine is made from petroleum and may cause allergic reactions in some people, particularly children. There are ways to avoid its exposure.
Blue 1
Food dyes made of synthetic chemicals derived from petroleum have been linked with behavioral and mood issues in children. Furthermore, these xenoestrogens may lead to weight gain and hormonal imbalance in girls in particular.
Mars, General Mills, Kellogg and other consumer packaged goods companies made a pledge in 2016 to remove artificial colors from their products within five years – but this commitment remains incomplete.
Blue 1, or Brilliant Blue FCF, is a synthetic dye widely used in food and cosmetic products to add color. However, its presence may cause allergic reactions and may even be carcinogenic in humans; research conducted on rats revealed it may inhibit nerve cell development while interfering with phosphatase activity and purinergic P2 receptor signaling (94). Furthermore, skin irritations and bronchial constriction have been observed due to Blue 1 exposure.
Green 3
Green 3 or FD&C Green No. 3, is one of several artificial food dyes commonly found in baked goods, beverages, candy, gelatin desserts and sausage products. Studies have linked Green 3 with hyperactivity among children as well as allergies and skin reactions in certain individuals.
Health professionals are increasingly encouraging their clients to forgoing synthetic food colorings due to the links between synthetic food dyes and health concerns such as hyperactivity, allergies and inflammation. Luckily there are natural alternatives available such as Giggles organic lollipops which feature coloring made from radish root, carrots, sweet potatoes and blackcurrant instead of Yellow 5 and Red 40 dyes.
