Coloring Includes

Coloring Includes is a general term used on ingredient lists to cover a variety of coloring agents. These can be natural or artificial and are used to add or restore color to food products. The specific ingredients are not listed when this term is used.

Manufacturers use Coloring Includes to make food products more visually appealing by adding or enhancing their color. This is common in confectionery, baked goods, and other processed foods where color plays a significant role in consumer perception.

The FDA regulates food colorings to ensure they are safe for consumption. Some artificial colorings have been linked to hyperactivity in some children, though scientific reviews have yielded mixed results. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) evaluate food additives, including colorings, for safety. The specific health impacts can depend on the individual colorings used.