October 2021

Food Dyes are everywhere—from the bright colors of candies and desserts to the appealing look of packaged snacks and beverages. These additives play a major role in making food visually attractive, consistent, and marketable. While natural dyes have been used for centuries, the rise of artificial food dyes has sparked ongoing debates about their safety, health impact, and long-term effects. Understanding what food dyes are, how they’re used, and the concerns surrounding them can help you make smarter, healthier choices for yourself and your family. What Are Food Dyes? Food dyes are color additives used to enhance the appearance of food and beverages. They can be natural (derived from plants, animals, or minerals) or synthetic (chemically produced in labs). These dyes help make processed foods more appealing, compensate for color loss during storage, and create consistency in manufacturing. People have used food dyes for centuries, but modern synthetic dyes raise concerns about their safety and health risks. Types of Dyes 1. Artificial Artificial dyes are synthetic chemicals created to provide vibrant, long-lasting colors. The most common ones approved for use include: Red No. 40 (Allura Red): Commonly found in candies, sodas, snacks, and cereals. Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine): Commonly used…