Artificial Colors Fd & C

Artificial colors, also known as synthetic food dyes, are chemical substances created in laboratories. They are not derived from natural sources. These dyes are used to impart color to food, drugs, and cosmetics.

Manufacturers add artificial colors to foods to enhance their visual appeal, make them more attractive, or restore color lost during processing. They are commonly found in candies, baked goods, beverages, snacks, and desserts.

In the United States, artificial colors are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as color additives. The FDA revoked the approval for Red 3 for use in food in January 2025, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply. 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. International bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated many individual artificial colors. There has been ongoing debate about a potential link between artificial food colors and hyperactivity in some children; however, evidence remains mixed, and the FDA states there is no conclusive link for the general population.