Artifical Colors

Artificial colors are substances made in a lab that are added to foods to give them a specific color or to make their natural color more intense. They are synthetic, meaning they are not found naturally in plants, animals, or minerals.

Manufacturers add artificial colors to make foods more visually appealing and to help identify flavors. They are commonly found in candies, soft drinks, baked goods, and dessert toppings to create bright, consistent colors.

In the United States, artificial colors are approved food additives by the FDA. The FDA announced in April 2025 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. Additionally, the FDA revoked the use of Red 3 for food in January 2025, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply. There has been debate about whether artificial colors can cause hyperactivity in some children; some studies suggest a link, while others do not, and the evidence is mixed. Both JECFA and EFSA have evaluated many individual food colors and set acceptable daily intakes for some.