Food color additives, also known as synthetic food dyes or artificial food colorings, have been a staple in the American food supply for over a century. These vibrant color additives are used to enhance the visual appeal of processed foods, but their potential health risks—particularly for children—have raised significant concerns. Consequently, there is growing concern and mistrust among consumers about the practices and products of the commercial food manufacturing industry. This blog post will explore the history of food dyes in the United States, explain how they are classified by the FDA, and assess the scientific literature linking them to health risks in children. Finally, we will offer practical advice for parents and suggestions for how-to advocate in an effective, meaningful way to improve the safety of the American food supply.
The history of food dyes in the United States began in the late 19th century when synthetic dyes, initially derived from coal tar and later from petroleum, were introduced to enhance food appearance affordably and consistently. As mass production increased, synthetic dyes became popular due to their ability to create standardized products. However, safety concerns arose, leading to the United States Food and Drugs Act of 1906, which banned harmful food colors. This was strengthened by the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938, establishing a certification system for food colors still in use today. Over time, several dyes were banned due to health risks, but nine synthetic dyes remain FDA-approved for food use.
Food colorings can be classified into two main categories:
Synthetic dyes are favored by manufacturers because they are cheaper and more stable than natural alternatives. However, their chemical composition has raised concerns about potential health risks.
The FDA classifies food colorings into two groups:
Currently, there are nine certified color additives approved by the FDA for use in food:
Color additives that are exempt from certification under U.S. FDA regulations are typically derived from natural sources such as plants, minerals, or animals. These additives do not require batch-by-batch certification but must still meet specific identity and purity standards as outlined in 21 CFR Part 73. Below is a list of some common color additives that are exempt from certification:
These additives are considered safe by the FDA when used according to their specified conditions and do not require the same rigorous batch certification process as synthetic colors, making them popular in products marketed as “natural.”
Food manufacturers use dyes for several reasons, including:
Synthetic food dyes offer advantages over natural alternatives, including longer shelf life and a wider range of colors. Food manufacturers often use color additives to enhance naturally occurring colors or to make food more appetizing and fun to eat.
Recent research has raised concerns about the potential health effects of synthetic food dyes, particularly in children. Studies have linked these dyes to various issues, including:
Despite these concerns, the FDA continues to allow the use of the approved synthetic food dyes, considering them safe when used as directed. The FDA’s approval process includes factors such as the properties of the ingredient, the amount likely to be consumed, any possible health effects that could result immediately or on a longer-term basis, and other numerous factors that address the product’s safety.
| Food Coloring | Common Uses | Potential Health Risks |
|---|---|---|
| FD&C Blue No. 1 | Drinks, candies, and baked goods | Allergic reactions, hyperactivity in sensitive children |
| FD&C Blue No. 2 | Confections, pet food | Allergic reactions |
| FD&C Green No. 3 | Ice cream, candies | Allergic reactions |
| FD&C Red No. 3 | Candy, baked goods | Potential carcinogenic effects |
| FD&C Red No. 40 | Drinks, snacks, and confections | Hyperactivity in sensitive children |
| FD&C Yellow No. 5 | Soft drinks, candies | Allergic reactions, hyperactivity |
| FD&C Yellow No. 6 | Snack foods, beverages | Allergic reactions |
| Orange B | Meat products | Allergic reactions |
| Citrus Red No. 2 | Citrus fruits | Potential carcinogenic effects |
Current guidelines suggest that the upper limit for artificial food dye consumption is about 100 milligrams per day. However, many parents may not be aware of how to track this intake.
The most common foods containing artificial dyes include:
Here are some examples of how a child could consume 100 milligrams or more of food color additives in a day:
This list is not exhaustive, but meant to provide you with examples. According to researchers, some children could potentially consume more than 200 mg of synthetic food color additives in a day.
If you notice behavioral changes in your child after consuming products with synthetic food dyes, it may be worth limiting their intake. Some parents have reported significant improvements in their children’s behavior after eliminating these dyes from their diets.
Most certified food color additives are derived from petroleum-based chemicals and have been linked to various health risks. Concerns include behavioral and developmental issues in some children, as well as a potential increased risk of cancer.
The possibility of food additives influencing hyperactivity in children became a popular theory in the 1970s, primarily due to the work of Dr. Benjamin Feingold. Several decades later, a landmark study published in The Lancet in 2007, commissioned by the United Kingdom’s Food Standards Agency, suggested that specific mixtures of food additives might increase hyperactivity in certain children, including those without a diagnosis of ADHD. This study led to a ban on six artificial food colorings in the UK. However, the FDA currently maintains that the link between these ingredients and hyperactive behavior is inconsistent and weak at best.
Subsequently, a study conducted by the California Environmental Protection Agency in April 2021 found that synthetic food dyes are associated with adverse neurobehavioral effects, including inattentiveness and hyperactivity, particularly in sensitive children. It is essential to recognize that not all children with ADHD are sensitive to food colorings, and conversely, not all children who exhibit sensitivities have ADHD. However, research indicates that up to 8% of children may experience negative behavioral effects from exposure to these dyes.
In addition to behavioral concerns, synthetic food dyes have been linked to other health issues:
As concerns about synthetic food dyes grow, there’s an increasing demand for alternatives. The United States has a unique opportunity to learn from Europe’s experience in this transition, potentially avoiding pitfalls and accelerating progress. The European food industry has demonstrated that investment in research and development can yield significant improvements in natural colorings’ performance and stability. The United States, with its robust food industry and research capabilities, is well-positioned to build on these advancements and potentially surpass them.
This approach can lead to innovative solutions that benefit consumers, industry, and public health alike, while maintaining the appeal and quality of our food products.
Some alternatives food manufacturers can consider:
While the debate on synthetic food dyes grows contentious on social media, what is needed a multifaceted strategy that includes more comprehensive research, improved labeling, increased availability of natural alternatives, and empowering parents with information. This nuanced approach balances safety concerns with consumer choice and industry practices. However, to effectively transition away from synthetic food dyes, it’s essential to engage key stakeholders and partner with food manufacturers. By fostering collaboration between researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and consumer advocacy groups, we can drive innovation in natural coloring alternatives. This collaborative effort could lead to the development of cost-effective, stable, and vibrant natural dyes that meet both consumer preferences and industry standards. Additionally, creating incentives for companies to invest in research and development of these alternatives could accelerate the shift towards safer, more natural food coloring options.
If you’re worried about synthetic food dyes in your child’s diet, here are some steps you can take:
For many parents, understanding the potential effects of synthetic food dyes on their child’s behavior is important. While research on this topic continues to evolve, many families with concerns have found that limiting or eliminating synthetic food colorings from their home brings peace of mind, and for some children, have led to positive behavioral changes. Choosing natural food colorings can easily be achieved by reading ingredients lists on food packages.Â
The debate over the safety of synthetic food colors is ongoing, and more research is needed to reach definitive evidence-baed conclusions. In the meantime, parents concerned about the potential effects of these additives can take proactive steps to reduce their children’s exposure. This includes reading food labels, opting for whole foods or over highly processed options, and consulting with a registered dietitian nutritionist for tailored guidance. As the food industry continues to evolve, we may see more companies moving towards natural colorants or color-free products in response to consumer demand. The ultimate goal should be to ensure both the safety, access, equity, and enjoyment of our food supply, while prioritizing the well-being of our children.
This blog post was written by Beth Conlon, PhD, RDN, a leading expert in pediatric and family nutrition. Dr. Conlon holds a PhD in Biomedical Science and is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) by training. She has extensive experience in both academia and industry, having worked as a postdoctoral fellow at Nestlé Health Science, where she gained firsthand knowledge of food additives and their effects on health. Dr. Conlon has authored over 15 peer-reviewed publications and textbook chapters, contributing significantly to the field of clinical nutrition research. She is also an adjunct professor, educating future healthcare professionals, and the owner of From the Start Nutrition, a private practice dedicated to helping families achieve optimal health through personalized nutrition strategies. As a mother of four, Dr. Conlon combines her professional expertise with her personal experience to offer practical, evidence-based advice on raising healthy children.
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Carolyn Silzle says:
I quickly read the article, but promise to read it in more detail soon. So these moms that we thought were a bit crazy were right? Or do we try to do a better job of listening to parents who are concerned about food coloring and its affect on their child’s behavior. I would love to hear what other RDNs have to say.
As an aside, I saw a box of cereal at the grocery this week being promoted as having NO food coloring. I don’t remember the brand, but thought it was unusual.