Is food coloring safe?

There’s been a lot of controversy over the safety of food dye in recent years. Proponents of dyes say that they are perfectly safe. Their argument is that dyes go through extensive testing – 5 – 10 years of laboratory and animal testing – before they are sent out on the market. They also say that it’s safe because the amount of dye in certain food is insignificant. The FDA also monitors complaints very closely.

But there are several things that point to food coloring being very toxic. Dr. Mercola points out in an article that dyes are one of the most dangerous and widely used additives. That’s bad news for everyone.

Health risks

According to some studies, dyes have been associated with cancer. Blue 1 has been shown to cause kidney tumors in mice. And Red 3 has been involved with thyroid cancer in another animal study. Dyes may also exacerbate symptoms of ADHD, according to studies done at Columbia University and Harvard University. Not to mention that the European Union passed a law in July of 2011 that all foods containing dye must have a label warning consumers that additives may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.

How to avoid them

Keep in mind that these additives are in processed foods to cover up the unnatural color of the processed food. Processed foods lose valuable nutrients, fiber and texture. In order to avoid the harmful impacts of food dye, purchase organic food or shop at your local farmers’ market. You can buy colorful foods; just make sure they are naturally vibrant. Purple eggplant, green spinach, rainbow chard and blueberries with bright colors can be natural and delicious. By eating a well-balanced diet, you’ll promote wellness and health within your body.

For more information on additives, healthy eating and other alternative therapies, contact us at one of our two Los Angeles spa locations:

Palos Verdes Spa – 310-392-9190

Santa Monica Spa – 310-399-1722

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2 Responses to “Is food coloring safe?”

1. Rebecca at "Die, Food Dye!" Says:
   July 5th, 2012 at 9:26 pm

   Good info. If you have kids, you can find lots of colorful snack options at health food stores, and even mainstream markets now. Also, you can either make your own food coloring for cakes and special events by boiling veg and fruits, or order natural liquid dyes online from Chocolate Craft, Seelect, Maggie’s Naturals, India Tree, and ChefMaster.

2. admin Says:
   September 14th, 2012 at 5:57 am

   Thanks for the additional info Rebecca!

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