How unhealthy are synthetic dyes in foods?

Synthetic food dyes and their potential links to neurobehavioral issues in children have become a major topic of concern. The issue has gained momentum following California’s recent decision to ban six synthetic dyes from public school food starting in 2028.

The California School Food Safety Act aims to protect children from possible health risks associated with these dyes. However, as the Science News publication reports, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to approve them, maintaining there isn’t enough scientific evidence to warrant a nationwide ban.

In Michigan, protests erupted at the headquarters of WK Kellogg Co., criticizing the company’s failure to remove synthetic dyes from US products, despite prior commitments. Many are concerned that with federal and state regulations misaligned, parents are left struggling to determine which foods may pose risks to their children.

The FDA did, however, officially ban Red 3 on January 15, a synthetic, petroleum-based dye commonly used in candy, cakes, cookies, frozen desserts, and frosting, from food, beverages, and ingestible medications. This decision comes 35 years after the FDA prohibited its use in cosmetics like lipstick and two years after a petition by the Center for Science in the Public Interest highlighted research linking the additive to cancer in male rats at high doses.

Synthetic dyes are artificial color additives used to make food visually appealing, especially to children. They do not contribute to nutrition or preservation but instead enhance the marketing appeal of candies, cereals, and other processed foods. These dyes are listed on ingredient labels with names like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1. However, US products containing synthetic dyes lack warning labels, making it difficult for consumers to make informed choices.

Beyond food, synthetic dyes are also found in cosmetics, hair products, and medications, raising broader concerns about their widespread use.

Concerns over synthetic dyes date back over a century. Early versions contained toxic substances like lead chromate and arsenic, leading to widespread health risks. In 1950, an unsafe dye called Orange 1 poisoned dozens of children after they consumed tainted Halloween candy, drawing public attention to the dangers of synthetic coloring.

The modern debate began in the 1970s, when researchers first suggested a possible link between synthetic dyes and childhood hyperactivity. Since then, studies have been conducted, but the FDA has continued to permit their use, citing insufficient conclusive evidence.

However, in 2021, California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment conducted an extensive review of 25 clinical trials, comparing children's behavior when consuming synthetic dyes versus placebos. In 16 of these studies, a credible link was found between synthetic dyes and neurobehavioral issues, including hyperactivity, mood swings, and difficulty focusing. These findings played a key role in the recent California ban.

Experts argue that California’s move may encourage other states to follow suit, pressuring food manufacturers to reformulate their products. Supporters of the ban, such as Melanie Benesh from the Environmental Working Group, believe that reducing synthetic dyes in schools will create a better learning environment for children.

With growing public concern and mounting scientific evidence, the debate over synthetic food dyes is unlikely to fade. Whether the FDA will revise its stance remains uncertain, but California’s action marks a significant step toward stricter food safety regulations in the US.

By Nazrin Sadigova