It’s time to talk about food coloring.
Food coloring, also known as food dye or color additive, is a substance used to add or enhance the color of food, drinks, and other edible products. These substances come in a variety of forms including liquids, gels, pastes, and powders and are used for a wide range of purposes, such as baking, cooking, decorating, making vibrant colorful candies, fondant or icing for cakes, and soft drinks.
Food coloring comes from synthetic or natural sources. Synthetic food coloring is made from petroleum and other chemicals, while natural food coloring is made from natural sources such as fruits, vegetables, spices, or other plant-based means..
The use of food coloring dates back to the ancient Egyptians, who used natural dyes such as saffron and indigo to color their food. Today, food coloring is a common ingredient in many processed foods and drinks, and is regulated by various food safety agencies around the world, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
There are currently (as of 2022) a set of 9 artificial food colorings that are approved for use in the United States, this rainbow of tints including Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, and Red 3, Orange B, Citrus Red 2. These artificial food colorings have been the subject of controversy in recent years, with studies suggesting that they can cause health problems. Because of these risks there is a growing trend towards using natural food coloring in food and drinks.
The List of FDA Approved Food Dyes in the USA and Their Negative Health Effects:
Blue 1 (Brilliant Blue)
- Common uses: Beverages, candy, baked goods, and other processed foods to provide a bright blue color.
- Potential negative health effects: Some studies suggest that Brilliant Blue FCF may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, such as skin rashes, hives, or difficulty breathing. Additionally, there have been reports of hyperactivity in children with ADHD when consuming products containing this dye. It has also been shown to cause genetic mutations in laboratory tests and has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. In laboratory tests, Blue 1 has been shown to cause mutations in bacteria and to increase the number of tumors in rats.
Blue 2 (Indigotine)
- Common uses: Candy, pet food, and other processed foods to provide a blue-violet color.
- Potential negative health effects: Although rare, some individuals might experience allergic reactions to Indigotine, such as skin rashes, hives, or difficulty breathing. There is limited evidence suggesting a potential link between Indigotine and tumor growth in lab animals, specifically in rats. A study conducted in the 1980s found an increased incidence of brain tumors in male rats exposed to high doses of Indigotine.
Green 3 (Fast Green)
- Common uses: Beverages, ice cream, puddings, and other processed foods to provide a green color.
- Potential negative health effects: Some studies have shown that Fast Green may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, such as skin rashes, hives, or difficulty breathing. It has also been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer and in laboratory tests, Green 3 has been shown to cause bladder tumors in rats.
Red 3 (Erythrosine)
- Common uses: Candy, maraschino cherries, and baked goods to provide a pink to red color.
- Potential negative health effects: It has been identified as a carcinogen by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and has been shown to cause tumors in laboratory animals, including tumors of the thyroid gland.
Red 40 (Allura Red)
- Common uses: Beverages, candy, cereals, and other processed foods to provide a red-orange color.
- Potential negative health effects: Some studies have shown an association between Allura Red and hyperactivity in children, particularly those with ADHD. Red 40 has also been shown to cause tumors in laboratory animals and has been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
Yellow 5 (Tartrazine)
- Common uses: Beverages, candy, cereals, and other processed foods to provide a yellow color.
- Potential negative health effects: Tartrazine is known to cause allergic reactions in a small percentage of people, particularly those with an allergy to aspirin. Symptoms can include skin rashes, hives, or difficulty breathing. Additionally, some studies have suggested an association between Tartrazine and hyperactivity in children. While it has not been definitively linked to cancer, it has been shown to cause genetic mutations and has been linked to an increased risk of cancer in laboratory animals. In laboratory tests, Yellow 5 has been shown to cause genetic mutations and to increase the number of tumors in rats.
Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow)
- Common uses: Beverages, candy, cereals, and other processed foods to provide an orange-yellow color.
- Potential negative health effects: Some studies suggest that Sunset Yellow may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, such as skin rashes, hives, or difficulty breathing. It has also been associated with hyperactivity in children, particularly those with ADHD. In laboratory tests, Yellow 6 has been shown to cause tumors in rats and mice.
Orange B
- Common uses: Hot dog and sausage casings.
- Potential negative health effects: Because of its confined us, limited data is available on the long-term safety of Orange B, particularly in comparison to other food dyes. This raises concerns about potential health effects from consuming products containing this dye. Another concern is the potential carcinogenicity of Orange B; some studies have suggested that it may be carcinogenic, with evidence of increased incidence of tumors in laboratory animals. Additionally, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Orange B, including skin irritation, itching, and redness.
Citrus Red No. 2
- Common uses: Coloring the peels of oranges that are not intended for processing (aesthetic purposes).
- Potential negative health effects: Concerns about the potential negative health effects of Citrus Red No. 2 include its possible carcinogenicity based on animal studies, limited safety data compared to other food dyes, and the potential for allergic reactions in some individuals.
I see the term LAKE after dye names on my food label, what does that mean?
Lake food dyes are pigments created by combining water-soluble food dyes with a substrate, usually aluminum hydroxide, to create an insoluble pigment. These lake dyes are used in a variety of food and cosmetic applications where a stable, water-insoluble color is required (like the shells of M&Ms).
Lake food dyes are a source of concern due to several potential negative effects. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, which can manifest as skin irritation, hives, or even anaphylactic shock in rare cases. The specific risk of an allergic reaction depends on the particular dye used. Additionally, there have been studies suggesting a link between artificial food dyes, including lake dyes, and hyperactivity or other behavioral issues in children.
Another concern is the potential carcinogenicity of some lake dyes, which may be derived from dyes that have shown evidence of causing cancer in laboratory animals as noted above. Furthermore, since lake dyes are created by combining food dyes with aluminum hydroxide, there is a potential risk of exposure to aluminum. Over time, aluminum may accumulate in the body, and high levels of exposure have been associated with neurological disorders.
Which FDA approved food dyes require warning labels in the European Union because of negative health effects?
Products containing the following 3 dyes must carry a warning label about potential allergic reactions and effects on children’s activity and attention. In the United States, it is approved for use without such a warning label.
- Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine, E102)
- Yellow No. 6 (Sunset Yellow FCF, E110)
- Red No. 40 (Allura Red AC, E129)
Has any country completely banned artificial food dyes?
While no country has entirely banned all artificial food dyes, several countries have stricter regulations in place regarding the use of specific artificial food colorings, and some have limited or restricted their use in food products. A few examples include:
The European Union (EU): As mentioned above, the EU has stricter regulations on artificial food dyes compared to the United States. Some food dyes that are permitted in the US are required to carry a warning label in the EU, stating that they may cause allergic reactions and have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children. The EU also requires manufacturers to use the natural alternatives whenever possible.
Norway: Norway has restricted the use of certain artificial food dyes, including Blue No. 1 (Brilliant Blue FCF), Red No. 2 (Amaranth), and Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine).
The United Kingdom: In 2008, the UK Food Standards Agency recommended the voluntary withdrawal of six artificial food dyes (Tartrazine E102, Quinoline Yellow E104, Sunset Yellow E110, Carmoisine E122, Ponceau 4R E124, and Allura Red E129) after the “Southampton Study” suggested a link between these dyes and hyperactivity in children. Some major food manufacturers and retailers in the UK have since removed these dyes from their products.
What are the impacts of artificial food coloring on behavior and mood?
Food coloring can also have an impact on behavior and mood. Some research suggests that consuming food coloring can lead to increased anxiety, irritability, and aggression. Additionally, food coloring can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and decreased productivity. Food coloring can impact behavior and mood in several ways. Some of the ways that food coloring can impact behavior and mood include:
Stimulation of the Central Nervous System
Food coloring contains chemicals that can stimulate the central nervous system, leading to increased levels of hyperactivity and impulsiveness in children. This can result in increased restlessness, fidgeting, and difficulty paying attention, as well as a decrease in focus and concentration.
Changes in Mood and Behavior
Artificial food coloring has been linked to changes in mood and behavior, including increased irritability, anxiety, and restlessness. Some individuals may also experience mood swings, changes in their emotional state, and a decrease in overall well-being after consuming food coloring.
Increased Toxicity
Some food colorings have been linked to increased toxicity, which can result in increased irritability, anxiety, and restlessness, as well as changes in emotional state and cognitive function. Additionally, some food colorings have been linked to an increased risk of cancer and other health problems (noted in the list above), which can have a negative impact on overall well-being and behavior.
Hormonal Imbalances
Food colorings have been linked to hormonal imbalances, which can result in changes in mood and behavior. This can include changes in mood, increased irritability, and changes in emotional state.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Food coloring can also impact behavior and mood by causing nutritional deficiencies. This can occur when food products that contain synthetic food coloring replace healthier foods that provide essential nutrients. Nutritional deficiencies can result in symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and decreased cognitive function.
What are the negative environmental impacts of artificial food coloring on aquatic life?
Water Pollution
Food coloring can contribute to water pollution by seeping into waterways and contaminating the water supply. This can have a negative impact on the health of aquatic life, including fish, plants, and other aquatic organisms.
Toxicity
Some food colorings contain chemicals that are toxic to aquatic life. These chemicals can cause harm to fish, plants, and other aquatic organisms, leading to death or decreased populations.
Hormonal Imbalances
Some food colorings have been linked to hormonal imbalances in aquatic life, including fish and other aquatic organisms. Hormonal imbalances can result in changes in growth, reproduction, and other physiological functions, which can have a negative impact on the health and well-being of aquatic life.
Genetic Mutations
Some food colorings have been shown to cause genetic mutations in aquatic life, including fish and other aquatic organisms. These mutations can result in changes in growth, reproduction, and other physiological functions, which can have a negative impact on the health and well-being of aquatic life.
Changes in Ecosystems
The harmful effects of food coloring on aquatic life can also result in changes in ecosystems. This can include changes in the populations of fish, plants, and other aquatic organisms, as well as changes in the relationships between these species.
What are the negative environmental impacts on soil and plant growth?
Contamination of Soil
Food coloring can contaminate soil through leaching from food production facilities, waste disposal sites, or other sources. This can result in changes in soil composition and pH, which can negatively impact plant growth and health.
Toxicity to Plants
Some food colorings contain chemicals that can be toxic to plants, leading to decreased growth, stunted development, and reduced yields. This can have negative impacts on agriculture and food production.
Changes in Soil Microorganisms
Food coloring can also impact the populations of soil microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, which play a critical role in soil health and plant growth. Changes in the populations of these microorganisms can result in changes in soil fertility, soil structure, and other soil characteristics, which can negatively impact plant growth and health.
Impairment of Nutrient Uptake
Food coloring can also impair the uptake of nutrients by plants, leading to decreased growth, stunted development, and reduced yields. This can result in decreased productivity and reduced food production.
Impact on Pollinators
Food coloring can also impact pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which play a critical role in plant pollination and reproduction. Impacts on pollinators can result in decreased plant reproduction and reduced yields, which can have negative impacts on agriculture and food production.
What are some alternatives to food coloring?
Natural Food Coloring
Natural food colorings, such as beet juice, turmeric, and anthocyanins, can be used as alternatives to synthetic food coloring. These colorings are derived from plants and are considered safe and non-toxic.
Plant-Based Colorants
Plant-based colorants, such as carotenoids and chlorophyll, can be used as alternatives to synthetic food coloring. These colorings are derived from plants and are considered safe and non-toxic.
Fruit and Vegetable Juice Concentrates
Fruit and vegetable juice concentrates, such as blueberry juice and carrot juice, can be used as alternatives to synthetic food coloring. These concentrates are derived from fruits and vegetables and are considered safe and non-toxic.
Spices and Herbs
Spices and herbs, such as paprika and saffron, can be used as alternatives to synthetic food coloring. These ingredients are derived from plants and are considered safe and non-toxic.
Mineral-Based Colorants
Mineral-based colorants, such as titanium dioxide and iron oxide, can be used as alternatives to synthetic food coloring. These colorants are derived from minerals and are considered safe and non-toxic.
What are the benefits of using natural coloring?
Safety
Natural food coloring is considered safer than synthetic food coloring, as it is derived from plants and other natural sources and is generally considered non-toxic. This can reduce the risk of adverse health effects associated with synthetic food coloring.
Nutritional Benefits
Some natural food colorings, such as beet juice and turmeric, provide additional nutritional benefits, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. This can contribute to overall health and well-being.
Improved Taste
Natural food colorings can also improve the taste of food, as they are derived from real fruits and vegetables and can add flavor and aroma to food products.
Better for the Environment
Using natural food coloring can also have positive impacts on the environment, as it reduces the use of synthetic chemicals in food production and minimizes the risk of contamination of the environment.
Increased Consumer Demand
There is increased consumer demand for natural and organic food products, and using natural food coloring can help to meet this demand and appeal to consumers who are looking for healthier and more sustainable food options.
Final Thoughts
It’s essential for us to think about the long-term effects of food coloring on our health and the environment for numerous reasons. As we’ve discussed, studies have shown that being exposed to synthetic food coloring over a long time can cause adverse health effects like allergies, hyperactivity, and other behavioral issues in children. Moreover, some food colorings have chemicals that can be toxic and linger in the environment, leading to long-term exposure and potential health risks, including cancer.
The production and use of food coloring can also negatively impact the environment, contributing to water and land pollution, resource depletion, and climate change. These effects can last for extended periods, harming the health of wildlife, plants, and other organisms, as well as the quality of the environment and our water supply.
So, when making food choices, it’s important to think about the long-term effects of food coloring and support efforts to minimize synthetic food coloring use and embrace natural alternatives. By making this effort, we can help ensure our own, and our children’s health and well-being, as well as that of our beautiful planet.
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We always encourage you to make informed decisions with you and your loved ones’ health.