The Global Stance: How Countries Regulate Artificial Orange Dye

As concerns about artificial food colorings continue to rise, various countries have adopted different approaches to regulate their use. This blog post delves into how countries, other than the United States, handle the regulation or restriction of artificial orange dyes, such as Sunset Yellow FCF and Orange B.

European Union: A Case for Strict Regulation

In the European Union (EU), the usage of food colorings is strictly regulated. For instance, Sunset Yellow FCF, also known as E110 in the EU, is only permitted in certain foods and within defined maximum levels. Moreover, any food or drink that contains this dye must carry a warning label indicating it "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children." This stems from a significant study conducted by the University of Southampton in 2007, linking certain food dyes, including Sunset Yellow FCF, to hyperactivity in children.

United Kingdom: Moving Towards Natural Alternatives

While the United Kingdom (UK) follows EU regulations, it has taken additional steps to reduce the usage of artificial food colorings. After the aforementioned University of Southampton study, the UK's Food Standards Agency (FSA) encouraged manufacturers to phase out the use of these dyes. Many UK manufacturers have since replaced artificial colors with natural alternatives in their products.

Australia and New Zealand: Balancing Safety and Industry Needs

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), the body that oversees food regulations in both countries, permits the use of Sunset Yellow FCF but within specified maximum limits to ensure safety. Like the EU, products containing this dye must carry a label indicating its presence.

Canada: A Case of Prohibition and Allowance

Canada's approach to food dye regulation is unique. While it permits the use of Sunset Yellow FCF under the name "Colour, Yellow No. 6," it does not allow the use of Orange B in foods, a stance shared by many countries, including the US and EU.

Navigating the Global Landscape

Understanding how different countries regulate artificial food colorings provides insight into the global perspective on this matter. It shows a growing trend towards stricter regulation, increased transparency, and a push for natural alternatives.

While we can't control global food policies, we can control our choices. By understanding these regulations, we can make informed decisions about the food we consume, keeping the health and wellbeing of our families at the forefront.