Added Color

Added colors are substances that impart color to food, drinks, or cosmetics. They can be derived from natural sources, such as plants, minerals, or insects, or they can be synthetic chemicals made in a laboratory.

Manufacturers add color to foods to make them more appealing, to replace color lost during processing, or to provide a consistent appearance. They are commonly found in cereals, candies, baked goods, and beverages.

In the US, the FDA regulates all food color additives, which must be approved before use. Some colors are 'certified' (synthetic), while others are 'exempt from certification' (often natural). The FDA revoked the use of Red 3 for food in January 2025, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Citrus Red 2, and Orange B. JECFA has evaluated many individual food color additives and set acceptable daily intakes for some. Some studies have suggested a link between synthetic food colors and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is mixed and not conclusive.