Since some food dyes have already been “delisted” or repealed by the FDA, it is small surprise that the affects and dangers of such dyes should be a growing concern. In order to reach the brilliant colors required of food dyes, manufacturers use a number of synthetic chemicals, many of which have a toxic effect on the human body. Currently the FDA only permits seven particular food dyes, which are then combined to make different colors. These include Blue No. 1, Red No 40, and Yellow No. 5–but this does not mean they have been proven safe, and the ingredients used in some of them are truly alarming.
At least seven food dyes have been banned due to problems, and others are under investigation. Some have been proven to be allergenic, especially to children, while others have been linked to a multitude of problems, including cancers, ADHD, seizures, and sterility. Generally, the more remarkable the color, the more dubious its chemical makeup–blue food coloring, for instance, is petroleum based. Others are made with coal or other types of fossil fuels.
Food Dye Suspects
The problem with food dye is that it is present in an astonishingly wide variety of products. Even those who make an effort to avoid food coloring of any sort will probably stumble upon it without meaning to. Of course, colored candy and carbonated beverages are obvious culprits, but food coloring is used for much more subtle purposes. Certain salmon farms, for instance, use red food dye to make their fresh salmon cuts appear more attractive, while many fruit pickers and canners use dye to make cherries and other berries look fresher.
Don’t expect to only find food dyes in food, either! Almost all pet food manufacturers use dyes in processing their food, especially dry types of dog food. There are also a number of dyes added in medicinal and hygienic products, including syrups and pill coatings. A large variety of make-ups and lotions also make use of food colorings. So be sure you check the labels, and even then take ingredients with a grain of salt!
