Decoding Food Labels: Spotting Artificial Food Coloring Dyes

by Scott Galbiati
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Navigating the world of artificial food dyes can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to recognizing these additives on food labels. This guide aims to provide a practical approach to identifying artificial food coloring dyes and highlighting resources for further information.

Deciphering Ingredient Lists

Artificial food colorings can sneak their way into a variety of everyday foods, from colorful cereals to tasty treats. Here's how to identify them:

  1. Look for Numbers: Artificial food dyes are often listed with their designated number. For instance, Red No. 40 or Blue No. 1. The presence of these numbers on a label is a clear sign of artificial dyes.
  2. Recognize Chemical Names: Sometimes, these dyes may be listed under their chemical names such as Allura Red (Red No. 40), Tartrazine (Yellow No. 5), or Indigotine (Blue No. 2). Familiarizing yourself with these names can help identify these colorings.
  3. Beware of Collective Terms: Occasionally, manufacturers use collective terms like "color added" or "artificial colors," which encompass various food dyes. These phrases should also raise a red flag.

Public Resources for Information

For detailed insights into specific food colorings, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides an extensive database, including a Color Additive Status List. This comprehensive resource provides specifics about individual color additives, their approved uses, and any restrictions.

Other reliable sources include the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), which has published a comprehensive report on food dyes, and the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) Food Scores database, which rates foods on their ingredient concerns, including colorings.

In an era where artificial additives are prevalent, adopting an informed approach towards food selection is crucial. By understanding how to identify artificial colorings and knowing where to find reliable information, we can make safer and healthier food choices for our children.

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