Food dyes are found in most junk foods and have been linked with hyperactivity in children as well as cancer and allergic reactions.
Recently, several CPG companies made high-profile attempts to transition their products away from artificial colors towards those made with natural hues. Unfortunately, their self-imposed deadlines came and went, yet many of their brightly-hued items still contain artificial dyes.
What are they?
Artificial food dyes (also referred to as synthetic colors) are petroleum or crude-oil derived synthetic chemical substances used to add vibrant hues to food and beverages, without providing any nutritional benefit or adding texture or taste. Common examples include boxed mac and cheese, cereal bars and candy products targeted towards children.
Health risks posed by these dyes have long been the subject of debate and research. While some studies link them with hyperactivity and learning problems in children, others claim they can be used safely when used according to regulatory guidelines; with rules differing across nations only adding further confusion.
Natural foods often don’t contain artificial colors, making them easier to avoid than processed ones. To stay away from artificial colors, select whole unprocessed foods as often as possible such as fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, nuts seeds and whole grains; look out for naturally colored items like beets turmeric carrots as well as natural additives like beta carotene chlorophyll mica iron oxides etc.
Why are they used?
Artificial coloring can add vivid hues to food and non-food products, covering up any discolorations caused by age or spoilage, while giving products unique hues or drawing customers through advertising.
Chemicals found in plastic can lead to hyperactivity and other health issues in children, as well as allergic reactions and hives in some individuals. They have even been linked with cancer and possess the capacity for genotoxicity (the ability to damage chromosomes).
Many major food companies are taking steps to phase out artificial colors from their products, with General Mills making the pledge to do so by 2016. Kellogg also recently made similar pledges. This trend shows how people are prioritizing sustainability, but we should remember these promises are just the start.
What are the health risks?
Studies on the potential health risks posed by artificial colors have been ongoing for more than 45 years and include hyperactivity among children, allergic reactions and cancer risks. Furthermore, more genotoxicity studies linking artificial dyes with damage to human chromosomes is being done each year.
Food dyes provide no nutritional benefit and are usually used to make processed food, particularly those targeted towards children, more appetizing. Unfortunately, they neither prevent spoilage nor enhance flavor; eliminating such chemicals from your diet in favor of eating more whole foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables can contribute to improved mental and physical wellbeing for all involved.
Dietitians can assist clients in finding healthy alternatives to processed foods that contain artificial colorings. By emphasizing whole ingredients like fruits and vegetables, dairy and meat products containing vital nutrients – instead of resorting to processed options with dye-added food dyes – it’s possible to meet nutritional requirements without adding unnecessary food dyes into their diets.
What are the alternatives?
Food dyes are an easy and inexpensive way to add color to products, yet many parents are increasingly worried that these synthetic chemicals might be detrimental to children and vulnerable populations. Luckily, there are natural and safe alternatives available which provide similar hues.
Natural food colorings offer many environmental advantages while offering an abundance of colors, many more stable than their synthetic counterparts. Furthermore, these natural options tend to be less expensive.
Start searching for dye-free food by purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and meat from animals raised humanely. Dyes may also be present in many processed food items; therefore it’s essential that you read labels thoroughly to make sure you’re only purchasing items with real food ingredients. In addition, many brands now offer dye-free versions of their products which should be marked on their ingredient lists.
