Nowadays, food colours and additives are very prevalent, especially in processed foods and candies. Though these improve the visual appeal of the dish, artificial colours or dyes are dangerous and may pose serious health concerns. Thus, it is vital to teach the children the importance of selecting whole, natural foods and to educate parents about the negative impact of artificial food colours.
Food colours

Synthetic food dyes are commonly used these days, ranging from sweets, beverages to candies, pastries and packaged snacks. Medical experts are worried about the possible health risks linked to these. Children’s in particular, are susceptible to health problems associated with synthetic food colourings as their brains and bodies are highly vulnerable to the harmful chemicals present in colouring agents.

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Read this article to get an overview of how food colour impacts kids’ health and healthier alternatives to go for.

What Are Food Colourants?

Food colour, also known as food dyes, are synthetic chemical compounds created to improve the overall appearance of the food. In a few cases, these substances also enhance the taste of the food, offering a satiating experience. On the other hand, natural food colours are obtained from plants, minerals, insects or artificial dyes are mostly made from petroleum-based chemicals.

Some commonly used synthetic dyes include:

  • Red 40 (Allura Red)
  • Yellow 5 (Tartrazine)
  • Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow)
  • Blue 1 (Brilliant Blue)
  • Blue 2 (Indigo Carmine)

Also Read: What is MSG? Benefits, Health Impacts, And Downsides

Health Effects of Food Colouring

Several studies have raised concerns about the safety and usage of artificial food dyes, especially when it comes to children.

Behavioural Issues/ Hyperactivity

Evidence published by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Food Safety Authority has found a link between artificial dyes and increased hyperactive symptoms in children. This is especially true for children with attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), but even those kids without any diagnosis may experience restlessness and poor attention span and focus.

Allergic Reactions

A few children may develop mild to severe allergic reactions to certain dyes. Common allergic reactions include skin rashes, asthma, or sinus problems. Yellow 5 and Red 40 colour dyes are among the most associated with such reactions.

Potential Carcinogenic Effects

Animal studies have raised concerns that long-term exposure to certain food dyes could increase the risk of cancer, though more human research is needed.

Gut Health Concerns

Artificial colours may negatively affect the gut microbiome balance, which plays a key role in proper digestion, immunity, and brain health.

Also Read: Facts About Food Additives

Common Foods That Contain Artificial Colours

Artificial food dyes are found in a rich array of products marketed toward children, often without parents realising it:

  • Breakfast cereals
  • Gummy candies and jellybeans
  • Soft drinks and fruit punches
  • Ice pops and coloured yogurts
  • Packaged snacks (e.g., cheese-flavoured chips)
  • Cakes, cookies, and frosting mixes
  • Processed cheese and sauces

What Are Healthier Alternatives?

Switching to more natural options doesn’t mean sacrificing your favourite food or flavour. Here are some healthier alternatives:

Instead of giving your child artificially coloured candies, give them naturally sweetened dried fruits, organic gummies with natural dyes from beetroot or turmeric for that nutrient boost.

Whole grain cereals topped with fresh fruits or unsweetened granola energy bars prepared at home with dry fruits, nuts and seeds are the ideal alternative for sugary cereals.

Infused water with citrus fruits, berries and other seasonal fruits, homemade smoothies, or fresh fruit juices made at home, is the best choice for flavoured juices or drinks.

Prefer homemade ice-creams with natural colours like beet juice for red/pink colour, spinach powder for green, or turmeric for yellow.

Trail mix, popcorn with natural seasoning, or air-fried veggie chips are the best choices for junk or processed foods.

Conclusion:

Well, occasionally having artificial coloured food stuffs is less likely to be harmful; however, regular and over intake can seriously pose health risks, particularly for kids. Read food labels carefully, choose whole fresh foods and go for natural colouring can make a huge difference in augmenting your child’s overall physical and mental wellbeing.

(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile:

M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specialising in tailoring personalised diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasising the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.

References:

 Potential impacts of synthetic food dyes on activity and attention in children: a review of the human and animal evidence

Mark D Miller 1,✉, Craig Steinmaus 1, Mari S Golub 1, Rosemary Castorina 2, Ruwan Thilakartne 2, Asa Bradman 2,3, Melanie A Marty 1

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9052604/

https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/21/6/682

Applications of food color and bio-preservatives in the food and its effect on the human health

Author links open overlay panel

Subhashish Dey,Bommu Hema Nagababu

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772753X2200003X