Food dyes are now being listed under different names on labels, making it harder to know what you’re consuming.

Artificial food dyes…

– Are man-made in a lab with chemicals derived from petroleum (a crude oil product, which also happens to be used in gasoline, diesel fuel, asphalt, and tar).

– Require a warning label in other countries outside the US.

– Have been banned in countries like Norway and Austria (and are being phased out in the UK and the rest of Europe).

– Yellow 5 and Yellow 6 are contaminated with known carcinogens (a.k.a. an agent directly involved in causing cancer).

– Cause an increase in hyperactivity in children.

– Have a negative impact on children’s ability to learn.

– Have been linked to long-term health problems such as asthma, skin rashes, and migraines.

– Add absolutely no nutritional value to the foods we are eating and are solely used for aesthetic purposes only.

Some studies mentioned by the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) have suggested that consuming high amounts of the dye may lead to an increased risk of developing cancer. However, the FDA still considers Red Dye 40 safe for consumption, and “more research is needed” to establish a direct causative link. Some food dyes that are legal in the United States have been banned in other countries, such as Europe. For example, Red 40 has been removed voluntarily in Canada due to reports that it may be contaminated with a cancer-causing chemical. I wonder why they can’t all get on the same page?

Recently, Big Food has renamed artificial dyes to:

Red 40: Also known as Allura Red AC or E129.

Yellow 5: Also known as Tartrazine or E102.

Yellow 6: Also known as Sunset Yellow or E110.

Blue 1: Also known as Brilliant Blue or E133.

Blue 2: Also known as Indigo Carmine or E132.

Green 3: Also known as Fast Green or E143.

These names or codes are typically used in ingredient lists to indicate which specific artificial dye is used in a food product.

Consuming artificial food dyes can potentially lead to various symptoms and health effects in some individuals. Here are some commonly reported symptoms associated with artificial food dyes:

• Hyperactivity: Some studies suggest a link between artificial food dyes and increased hyperactive behavior, especially in children.

• Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions such as hives, itching, or swelling after consuming artificial food dyes.

• Migraines: Certain food dyes, particularly tartrazine (Yellow 5) and Red 40, have been reported to trigger migraines or headaches in susceptible individuals.

• Digestive Issues: Some people may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloating, or diarrhea.

• Behavioral Changes: Apart from hyperactivity, artificial food dyes have been associated with mood swings, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

• Skin Problems: In some cases, artificial food dyes may cause skin reactions or exacerbate existing skin conditions like eczema.

It's important to note that individual sensitivities vary, and not everyone will experience these symptoms. However, if you suspect that artificial food dyes are causing adverse effects, it may be beneficial to avoid them and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Alternatives…

If you’re looking to make a homemade frosting or dessert that needs a pop of color, there are lots of natural options to achieve that!

• Red: beets, tomato.

• Orange: carrots, paprika, sweet potato.

• Yellow: saffron, turmeric.

• Green: matcha, spinach. Green Spirulina powder.

• Blue: red cabbage + baking soda. Blue Spirulina powder.

• Purple: blueberries, purple sweet potato.

• Pink: strawberries, raspberries. Beet powder.

• Brown: coffee, tea, cocoa.

There are also naturally dyed sprinkles easily found on Etsy or Amazon. Watkins makes an assortment of No Artificial Dyes food coloring, too. Get creative in making colorful food the natural way!