Colorings

Colorings, often called artificial or synthetic colors, are chemical substances made in laboratories. They are designed to add or restore color to foods and are not naturally found in the foods themselves. These colors are typically derived from petroleum.

Manufacturers add colorings to make foods more visually appealing, to provide a consistent appearance, or to identify flavors. They are commonly found in candies, baked goods, snacks, beverages, and processed foods.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves specific color additives for use in food. 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. Additionally, the FDA revoked the use of Red 3 for food in January 2025, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply. There has been ongoing discussion regarding a possible link between synthetic food colorings and hyperactivity in some children, with evidence being mixed. While some studies suggest a link, others do not, and regulatory bodies continue to review the scientific data. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated individual food color additives and their safety.