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Time of India
01-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Donut Safety Alert: Health Risks of Artificial Colors
food safety Donuts, a popular treat among children, have been found unsafe following a recentand drug department test. The test revealed that excessive use of artificial colors in donuts exceeds the approved safety limits. This poses potential adverse effects on health, including allergic reactions, hyperactivity, and other long-term issues. Authorities have raised concerns over the widespread use of these harmful additives in the food to an official, five donut samples were tested, and one was reported to be harmful to health. The report emphasises the urgent need for stricter regulations and quality checks in the manufacturing of such food items. Artificial colours like Red 40, Allura Red, Yellow 5, and Tartrazine are commonly used to make donuts more visually appealing. A senior department official stated that these colors are harmful to health, particularly for children whose immune systems and health are more vulnerable to these chemicals. Hence, the Food Safety Department has advised consumers to be cautious when purchasing food items, particularly those marketed toward children, and urged food manufacturers to adhere to safety standards.
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.
Newsweek
23-04-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
Food Dye Ban: What Health Risks Do the 8 Additives Being Phased Out Have?
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Donald Trump's administration has announced a plan to phase out eight synthetic food dyes from the U.S. food supply by the end of 2026. The Food and Drug Administration's decision to remove the petroleum-based artificial color additives follows mounting scientific evidence and advocacy from health organizations such as the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), which has long warned of the risks associated with synthetic dyes. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has repeatedly criticized food additives, said at a news conference announcing the policy change on Tuesday that if consumers "want to eat petroleum, they ought to add it themselves at home." Why It Matters The FDA's policy change reflects growing concern over the potential health consequences of color additives, particularly for children and Kennedy Jr. repeatedly calling for attention to the issue of American health. Synthetic dyes offer no nutritional value and are often added for purely aesthetic reasons, according to CSPI. Several of the targeted dyes have already been banned in California, as they have been linked to hyperactivity, allergic reactions and cancer risks in animal studies. While the FDA has historically maintained that these dyes are safe in regulated quantities, critics argue that newer research justifies their removal. Which Food Dyes Are Being Phased Out? The FDA has moved to eliminate the following eight dyes from the U.S. food market: Red No. 40 (Allura Red AC) Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine) Yellow No. 6 (Sunset Yellow FCF) Blue No. 1 (Brilliant Blue FCF) Blue No. 2 (Indigo Carmine) Green No. 3 (Fast Green FCF) Citrus Red No. 2 Orange B These dyes are commonly used in products such as candies, cereals, beverages and snacks - many of which are marketed to children. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks during a news conference on the FDA's intent to phase out the use of petroleum-based synthetic dyes in the nation's food supply at the Hubert... Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks during a news conference on the FDA's intent to phase out the use of petroleum-based synthetic dyes in the nation's food supply at the Hubert Humphrey Building Auditorium in Washington, Tuesday, April 22, 2025. More AP What Health Risks Do the Food Dyes Have? Red No. 40 (Allura Red AC): This dye has been linked to behavioral changes in children. Research found that it may also cause hypersensitivity reactions. Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine): Tartrazine has been shown in research to cause allergic reactions, particularly in people who are sensitive to aspirin, and hyperactivity in children. It has also been found to contain benzidine, a contaminant classified as a human carcinogen. Yellow No. 6 (Sunset Yellow FCF): Animal tests referenced in the CSPI report linked this additive to adrenal and kidney tumors, though the FDA dispute these findings. It is also suspected to exacerbate hyperactivity in children. Blue No. 1 (Brilliant Blue FCF): Research found that this dye may interfere with nerve cell development. Blue No. 2 (Indigo Carmine): This dye has shown evidence of brain tumor development in rats. Green No. 3 (Fast Green FCF): This dye has been associated with bladder tumors in animal research. Citrus Red No. 2: This dye, which is primarily used on the skin of oranges, has been shown to cause bladder and internal tumors in animal studies. Orange B: Once used in sausage casings, this dye has mostly fallen out of use. Still, studies cited by CSPI linked it to carcinogenic outcomes in lab animals. What People Are Saying FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary said at a news conference on Tuesday: "The FDA will establish a standard and timeline for industry to switch to natural alternatives, revoke authorization for dyes not in production within coming weeks and take steps to remove remaining dyes on the market." Kennedy Jr. said at the same news conference: "Food dye is just a no-brainer. Nobody wants to eat petroleum. Everybody knows there's enough science out there that we know it's terrible for you. It causes health problems but also behavioral problems." Newsweek has contacted the FDA and the HSS, via email, for comment. What Happens Next The FDA has urged manufacturers affected by the ban to shift toward using natural coloring agents such as beet, watermelon or carrot juice. Authorization for Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B is set to be revoked in the coming months but manufacturers have until the end of 2026 to removed the other six from their supply.
Newsweek
22-04-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
Trump Admin Sets Deadline for Eliminating 8 Food Dyes in US Foods
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. U.S. health officials announced Tuesday that they will begin phasing out petroleum-derived artificial color additives from the national food supply—a move that could lead to major reformulations of many vividly colored products found on store shelves. At a news conference, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Marty Makary outlined the agency's plan to eliminate eight synthetic food dyes by the end of 2026. As part of the initiative, the FDA will set clear industry standards and timelines for transitioning to natural color alternatives. In the coming weeks, the agency will also revoke approval for any dyes no longer in production and begin the process of removing the remaining synthetic dyes currently on the market. The eight synthetic food dyes targeted for removal are: Red No. 40 (Allura Red AC); Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine); Yellow No. 6 (Sunset Yellow FCF); Blue No. 1 (Brilliant Blue FCF); Blue No. 2 (Indigo Carmine); Green No. 3 (Fast Green FCF); Citrus Red No. 2; Orange B. A woman holds a sign reading "MAHA Moms" at a press conference with US Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Food and Drug Administration Commissioner (FDA) Martin Makary on the... A woman holds a sign reading "MAHA Moms" at a press conference with US Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Food and Drug Administration Commissioner (FDA) Martin Makary on the intent of the FDA to phase out the use of petroleum-based synthetic dyes in the nation's food supply, at the Department of Health and Human Services in Washington, DC, on April 22, measure is a key component of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s broader "Make America Healthy Again" agenda. The change marks a substantial shift for U.S. food manufacturers, many of whom would need to reformulate products using natural color alternatives. Advocates for public health have long pushed for the removal of synthetic dyes, citing research—though mixed—that links these additives to neurobehavioral issues in children, such as hyperactivity and attention deficits. While the FDA has consistently maintained that approved color additives are safe, the agency acknowledges that "the totality of scientific evidence shows that most children have no adverse effects when consuming foods containing color additives." Currently, the FDA authorizes the use of 36 color additives, including eight synthetic dyes. In January, the agency declared that Red 3—a dye found in certain candies, baked goods, and pharmaceuticals—would be banned by 2028 due to its link to cancer in laboratory animals. The targeted dyes are widely used in American food products. In contrast, many companies in Canada and Europe have already transitioned to natural alternatives, partly due to regulations that require warning labels on foods containing artificial colors. A growing number of U.S. states, including California and West Virginia, have recently passed laws restricting or banning artificial dyes and other additives from school meals and, in some cases, from the broader food supply. This is a developing news story and will be updated as more information is available. Reporting by the Associated Press contributed to this story.
