Artificial Colors Including

Artificial colors are substances made in a laboratory that are added to foods to give them a specific color. They are typically derived from petroleum and are distinct from colors obtained from natural sources like plants or minerals.

Manufacturers use artificial colors to make foods more appealing, restore color lost during processing, or to create fun, vibrant products. They are commonly found in candies, snacks, beverages, and baked goods.

In the US, artificial colors are approved by the FDA as color additives for use in food. The FDA revoked Red 3 for food use 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. Concerns have been raised about a possible link between artificial colors and hyperactivity in some children; however, scientific evidence on this topic is mixed. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated many individual artificial colors and established acceptable daily intakes.