Food dyes are an integral component of processed food products and have been linked with neurobehavioral issues like hyperactivity in children. But avoiding them from your diet is simple and can even improve behavior, according to Jacob Wolf of UH Connor Whole Health.
Some manufacturers may have fallen back from their pledge to switch to natural dyes, but new research and legislation may push them in this direction again.
Choose Whole Foods
Food color additives must be listed on an ingredient label to enable easy identification, but while each synthetic color additive has undergone a stringent approval process by the FDA, its complete safety cannot be ensured.
Red 40 dye, made from petroleum-derived sources, has been linked with several health concerns among children such as hyperactivity and behavioral issues. While further investigation continues, many consumers now avoid foods and beverages containing Red 40.
Natural options can be found in ingredients such as beet juice (for vivid red hues), turmeric (yellow hues) and paprika; plant-based colors can also be found in food made with fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Some manufacturers still choose synthetic colors due to cost reasons or aesthetic benefits like heat resistance – these dyes may be hard to identify on product ingredients lists as they may only be designated by vague phrases like ‘artificially flavored” or “artificial color,” according to Wohlford.
Look for Natural Food Colors
Natural food dyes come from many different sources such as vegetables, fruits, spices and algae. You’ll find them available as liquids, powders, gels or pastes that are ideal for commercial food production and domestic culinary uses alike.
As consumer concerns about synthetic food coloring have grown, many brands have begun using natural colors instead. These are seen as safer alternatives that have been scientifically verified as healthy and have even proven themselves in certain studies.
Food grade color additives made from natural substances include annatto derived from the achiote plant; turmeric for its rich yellow hue; and caramel coloring made by heating sugars. Other popular natural colorants are beet juice and spirulina extract.
Last month, the FDA granted approval for four natural dyes–including red from annatto and blue from Galdieria sulphuraria microalgae–while expediting their review process for others. This move marks a step in President Trump’s quest to “Make America Healthy Again.” However, regardless of their FDA certifications and approvals, these should not be seen as replacements for real food sources.
Read Labels
The FDA has approved seven artificial food dyes as safe when used according to instructions, yet trends in food marketing have encouraged production of colorful foods and drinks which are promoted as being fresher or more flavorful.
These synthetic, petroleum-oil based colors can be found in a range of foods including soda pop, candy bars, breakfast cereals and many snacks and processed foods targeted toward children. Furthermore, beauty products contain these dyes while some even include it within pet food!
Red 40 is the most frequently used artificial dye and may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Commonly found in junk foods such as cookies and candies, gelatin desserts, sausage and pet food products; Red 40 may even lead to hyperactivity among certain children. Composed of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and sulfur molecules it comes from cochineal insects whose bite can make your skin crawl – it is no wonder more people opt out of using Red 40 dye.
Make Your Own
Artificial colors made from petroleum-based chemicals are used to add visual appeal to packaged food and drinks, though their use has been linked with various health issues including hyperactivity in children and an increased cancer risk.
There are natural alternatives to chemical dyes, however. You can find plant-based food coloring at some natural food stores or online. While more costly than the chemical-laden varieties, natural food dyes provide healthier choices for families looking for alternatives to artificial colorings altogether.
Home-made food coloring can also be made using fruits, vegetables, spices and other food products at home. Simmer the ingredients until a liquid forms or opt for powdered coloring which lasts longer. Be mindful when keeping homemade colorant in sunlight as prolonged exposure will fade its hue over time; make sure any purchased dyes also check their expiration dates as this could reduce waste!
