If you had told me 10 years ago food dyes could affect children's behavior I would’ve rolled my eyes at you… oh wait I did! The use of artificial dyes has increased an insane amount in the past 50 years. Why should we avoid them as much as possible?
For starters, Red 40, this man made chemical is derived from petroleum (it’s a crude oil product used in gasoline, diesel fuel, asphalt, and tar). Red 40 also contains p-Cresidine, which is “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen”. These dyes can disrupt the immune system.
Research found that “The molecules of synthetic colorants are small, and the immune system finds it difficult to defend the body against them. They can also bond to food or body proteins and, thus, are able to act in stealth mode to circumvent and disrupt the immune system.”
Many of these approved FDA dyes are banned in other countries. UK and Europe require warning labels if used.
Researchers have found artificial food coloring and sodium benzoate preservatives are directly linked to increased hyperactivity in children.
Has a negative impact on your child’s ability to learn.
Linked to long term health problems such as asthma, skin rashes, migraines, reproductive issues.
It’s disheartening when we learn that the food industries don’t have our best interest in mind.
These companies already make safer options for other countries, when will they reformulate for us?
References:
“43% of products marketed towards kids are artificially dyed. Which is linked to hyperactivity, other behavioral problems, and cancer.”