Latest news with #E110
News24
18-05-2025
- Business
- News24
Can't claim ‘no artificial colours' while listing some on your chip packet, ad watchdog rules
The packaging on Master Chips has been found to be misleading for claiming the snacks have 'no artificial colours'. While the company argued its claim was true, the ingredient list included synthetic dyes E110 and E104. The ARB accepted the company was being truthful, but ruled the labelling was inconsistent and could confuse consumers. For more financial news, go to the News24 Business front page. The Advertising Regulatory Board (ARB) has upheld a complaint against The Snack Chip Co. over misleading claims that its Master Chips contained no synthetic colouring. While the front of the packaging claims 'no artificial colors', the ingredients listed on the back of the package include synthetic dyes. The list included synthetic dyes E110 (Sunset Yellow) and E104 (Quinoline Yellow). The complainant argued that the labelling created confusion and misled health-conscious consumers, who rely on accurate product information. The company argued that while synthetic dyes were listed as E-numbers for 'classification and traceability purposes,' the actual product formulations did not contain artificial colourants. The ARB ruled against The Snack Chip Co., stating that the packaging was indeed misleading. 'While the directorate accepts that the sworn guarantee by the flavour supplier should be true, the directorate cannot comprehend why, then, unused ingredients that contradict the 'no artificial colors' statement, are listed on the back of the packaging,' the ruling read. According to the ARB, the presence of synthetic dyes in the ingredient list directly contradicted the front claim of 'no artificial colours', creating an inconsistency that could confuse or mislead consumers. The ARB instructed the respondents to remove the statement from the product packaging entirely or ensure that the ingredients list accurately reflects the product's actual composition.
Khaleej Times
28-04-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Food dyes may cause anxiety, hyperactivity, mood swings among kids, warn doctors
Doctors in the UAE are warning that food dyes can cause hyperactivity, mood swings and irritability in some children and teenagers. The concern has once again gained attention following the recent announcement by the US Department of Health and Human Services and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about new plans to phase out all petroleum-based synthetic dyes from food supply. Research indicates that food dyes can contribute to hyperactivity and mood issues among young people. If consumed regularly, dyed foods could also make children feel more anxious and high-strung. Dr Fatma Mohamed Mahmoud Ibrahim, specialist pediatrics, Burjeel Medical Centre, Al Shamkha, said, 'Studies like the Southampton study and reviews by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) found that some food dyes, especially when combined with preservatives, may worsen these behaviors. Recently, the FDA has started to review these findings more seriously. "In the UAE, we are seeing similar patterns as children's diets have more processed foods and snacks containing these dyes. A study by UAE University has also raised concerns about this, although, we still need more research to understand the full long-term impact on our local population.' Synthetic dyes common in children's products Medics explained synthetic food dyes are very common in the UAE, especially in products aimed at kids, 'like candies, colorful cereals, juices, and bakery items. Many products still use dyes like Tartrazine (E102), Sunset Yellow (E110), and Allura Red (E129),' added Ibrahim. Notably, in a social media post earlier this year, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment UAE (MOCCEUAE) emphasised ongoing updates to technical standards to protect consumer health. They stated that UAE regulations set safe limits for colourant additives based on risk assessments and global standards. Imported foods also undergo strict inspections and testing with local authorities to ensure safety. Worsening food consumption patterns Dr Mamata Bothra, specialist pediatrics and neonatologist, International Modern Hospital Dubai, said, 'Food dyes can definitely worsen signs of hyperactivity and also make some children more agitated.' Healthcare experts highlighted studies have shown associations between exposure to synthetic food dyes and the exacerbation of symptoms of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). 'I have seen a rise in these cases in recent years and exposure to food dyes in the early years is also seen to be causing a rise in these symptoms. Children consuming percentage of food with artificial dyes is three to four times more than seen in late 90s and early years of 2000. These effects can have long time implication in terms of behaviour. Lots of mood swings, agitations, increase in anxiety, decreased focus and sleep disorders are seen in children consuming high percentage of these food stuff. "Overall, everywhere the use of synthetic dyes has increased. The availability of packed foods, consumption of aerated coloured drinks, fast foods, candies etc are all on a rise,' added Bothra. Dr Fatma Mohamed Mahmoud Ibrahim, specialist pediatrics, Burjeel Medical Centre, Al Shamkha, said, 'While specific UAE-wide data on this topic is still emerging, the high availability of processed foods in our markets makes this concern highly relevant.' However, doctors pointed out most of the time, the effects are short-term. Symptoms like restlessness, mood swings, and poor concentration often happen within a few hours after eating foods with dyes. However, if children keep eating these foods regularly, it could add up over time and affect their long-term behavior and learning issues. 'Parents play a crucial role…they should carefully check food labels, opt for natural color alternatives, and reduce the overall consumption of highly processed foods. Creating a healthier, dye-free diet can significantly improve a child's behavior, learning ability, and overall wellbeing,' added Ibrahim.
