For more than 150 years, food manufacturers have been using artificial dyes to make their snacks stand out.
Recent news, however, has reported issues with artificial food dyes. With companies phasing them out in favor of natural coloring, and lawmakers looking at labels, too, Jamie Alan, an associate professor in the Pharmacology and Toxicology department at MSU’s College of Human Medicine gives us the scoop on artificial dyes.
Why are artificial food dyes used?
It’s simple, dyes make food look more appealing. They’re most often used in things considered junk food and have no nutritional benefit.
Should people be concerned about consuming artificial food dyes?
The compounds used to color food are safe for most people. However, there is a small percentage who experience temporary adverse effects.
For some children, consumption of food dyes can cause behavioral disorders. These typically show up as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder behaviors. After an affected child eats items with artificial food dyes, they can exhibit hyperactivity, moodiness, irritability and inattentiveness for a few hours.
What should parents know about artificial food dyes?
For most children, food dye is safe.
If you notice your child has altered behavior after consuming brightly colored foods or drinks, talk to your pediatrician. It’s hard to sort out because many of these foods have artificial dyes plus a lot of sugar. So, is the child acting out because of sugar? Because of dye? Both things? An elimination diet may be useful in determining the cause.
Are there natural alternatives for coloring food?
Yes, there are many natural alternatives, and they make food look great! Spirulina, a type of algae, produces a very vibrant blue. Beet extract makes a vivid red or bluish red, depending on how it’s used. Those are just two examples. We can get many colors from natural sources.