Artificial dyes made from petroleum-oil based chemicals have been linked with adverse health impacts such as hyperactivity in children, irritability, allergies, gastrointestinal problems and cancer. Dietitians can assist clients in choosing alternative options over artificial colors for greater wellbeing.
Kellogg is leading the charge in this effort, having already transitioned 90% of their products over to natural colorings.
Real Food
Real food diets emphasize foods as close to their original state as possible, including whole grains, lean meats and fish, fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds – while also avoiding processed products with refined sugars, salt and unhealthy fats.
Real food has been around since the dawn of time. You can find real food at local markets or grow it yourself at home.
Popcorn, granola bars and rice cakes are examples of real food that is free from artificial colors. Fresh fruits such as strawberries or blueberries as well as raw veggies should also be seen without artificial dyes, with dairy products like organic or grass fed dairy being considered more healthy options as well as wild or farm raised seafood products being preferable choices for such diet changes. If transitioning towards this diet slowly is something you want to pursue then gradually introduce items gradually until everyone adjusts.
Natural Flavors
Product marketed as natural must come from either plant or animal materials and never contain synthetic compounds, yet there can be various kinds of natural flavors — essential oil, oleoresin or essence/extractive, protein hydrolysate, distillate roast or enzymolysis — making comparison between products difficult.
Color is often used to achieve desired hues and textures in foods and beverages, such as brightening up fruit salad dressing or puffing up cereal puffiness. But there can be challenges associated with attaining vibrant hues using only natural sources.
Sensient’s Microfine technology has expanded the selection of botanical colorants that work seamlessly in dry blends as well as fat or oil based systems, making these natural colorings essential when coating dairy products like yogurt, pudding or ice cream.
Natural Preservatives
Natural preservatives come from various sources, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. Preservatives prevent bacteria growth while helping preserve texture and color of foods.
Natural food dyes can be found in candy, fruit-flavored snacks and drink mixes, processed foods and more. Some studies indicate that artificial coloring may contribute to hyperactivity in children but more research needs to be conducted in this area.
Attaining as many whole, unprocessed foods as possible is one way to minimize exposure to artificial colors and other unhealthy ingredients. If you do need packaged items, look for brands that advertise themselves as artificial colors-free or contain natural food colorings – such as Superieur Electrolytes’ sports drinks that use plant-based colors and sweeteners; their powders come packaged so you can mix it with water at home! Or check out BodyArmor Lyte which uses organic coconut water with natural flavors.
Natural Ingredients
Safety concerns around artificial dyes is a hotly debated subject. Some studies have linked artificial colors with hyperactivity and ADHD in children while other research has not. More studies must be conducted; in the meantime, eating and drinking items free from synthetic colors may help limit your child’s exposure.
Natural colorings come from fruits, vegetables, herbs and plants and offer a wide array of hues that complement vegan diets.
Many companies have pledged to remove artificial dyes from their products. General Mills announced in 2015 that all its cereals would be free from artificial dyes by 2016. Kellogg followed suit and pledged to rid itself of all artificial ingredients by 2020. While such pledges are an admirable first step, it’s crucial that as much food as possible contains whole and unprocessed ingredients for optimal health.
