Artificial Color

Artificial colors are synthetic substances used to add color to foods and beverages. Unlike natural colors, they are chemically manufactured rather than extracted from plants, animals, or minerals.

Manufacturers add artificial colors to enhance visual appeal, replace color lost during processing, and ensure color consistency in products. They are commonly found in items like powdered drinks, candies, and chewing gum.

In the US, artificial colors are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as color additives, requiring pre-market approval. The FDA revoked the use of Red 3 for food in January 2025, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply. Additionally, in April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out several petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Citrus Red 2, and Orange B. Some scientific studies suggest a link between the consumption of certain artificial colors and hyperactivity in some children, though evidence remains mixed and is subject to ongoing review by regulatory bodies. Both the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated many individual artificial colors, with JECFA setting acceptable daily intakes for some, and EFSA noting concerns regarding hyperactivity for certain colors.