Artificial Food Colors Fd & C

Artificial food colors are synthetic substances created in laboratories to add color to foods and beverages. They are not found naturally and are typically derived from petroleum.

Manufacturers add artificial food colors to make products more visually appealing and to ensure color consistency. They are commonly found in candies, baked goods, beverages, and processed snacks.

In the US, artificial food colors are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as color additives, meaning they have been evaluated for safety and are permitted for use in specific amounts. In January 2025, the FDA revoked the use of Red 3 for food, 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. There has been ongoing debate regarding the potential link between artificial food colors and hyperactivity in some children; while some studies suggest a connection, the evidence is mixed, and other studies have not found a consistent link. 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 food colors and established acceptable daily intakes for them.