Coloring

Coloring is a broad term for any substance added to food to change or enhance its color. These substances can be derived from natural sources, such as plants, minerals, or insects, or they can be synthetic, meaning they are man-made, often from petroleum.

Manufacturers add coloring to food to make it more visually appealing, to replace color lost during processing, or to provide a consistent appearance. It is commonly found in a wide range of products including candies, snacks, beverages, and baked goods.

FDA regulates food colorings, which include both natural and synthetic substances. Many synthetic colorings, such as Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1, are classified as 'color additives' and require FDA approval before use. In January 2025, the FDA revoked the approval for Red 3 for use in food, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply. Additionally, 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. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated many individual color additives. Some studies have suggested a link between certain artificial food colorings and hyperactivity in children, though evidence is mixed and more research is ongoing.