Color Additives

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Blog Post 2



            There has been an increased interest in color additives of late. Color additives are included in foods to achieve a more desirable color in foods where the color is likely to fade. There are different types of additives. There are those that people consider to be natural that come from fruit or vegetable pigments, minerals, or insects. The other type is the synthetic colors. These colors are made in a lab and typically have a petroleum base.  

            It is the synthetic colors that has caused a growing concern in the general public. There is speculation that colorings may have an effect on children with ADHD or that they are linked to cancer. The safety of color additives are investigated by the FDA prior to use. The FDA also tests and certifies each batch of new color. Unlike other food additives, color additives must establish proof of safety during the approval process. Also, synthetic colors are not given the label “generally recognized as safe.” The FDA states that adverse reactions to synthetic color are rare. Some children may be sensitive to synthetic colorings however, most do not experience any adverse effects. Some people may choose to avoid synthetic colors. They should be advised to avoid processed foods when possible and to read the ingredients labels.

Zelman, Kathleen. "Color Additives." Food and Nutrition, vol. 6, no. 5, Sept. 2017, pp. 34-35.


SG

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