What exactly are synthetic food dyes, and why are they put into what we consume?

Synthetic food dyes, also known as “azo-dyes”, any dye, pigment or substance that imparts color when it is added to a food or drink. They are derived from coal tar and petroleum and come in many forms consisting of liquids, powders, gels and pastes. Synthetic food dyes are used widespread in this day and age because they are cheaper to manufacturer. Artificial dyes are made from the same petroleum by products that help fuel our automobiles. Many people forget that these dyes are chemicals that are made in a lab. Who in the world would want to put that in their body? Color additives are categorized by either dyes or lakes.

 

Dyes Vs. Lakes

Dyes: dissolve in water and are manufactured as powders, liquids, granules or other special-purpose forms.

Lakes: are water-insoluble form of dye. Lakes are more stable than dyes and are ideal for coloring products containing oils and fats, or items without enough moisture to dissolve dyes.

The FDA states that artificial/synthetic dyes are used:

  • Enhance any colors that occur naturally
  • Provide color to colorless and “fun” foods <—– MARKETING TO CHILDREN
  • Allow to consumers to identify products on sight
  • Make food more attractive and appealing
  • Offset color loss due to exposure to light, air, extreme temperatures, moisture and storage

You might be asking yourself is it necessary to put artificial dyes in food products? Absolutely not. There are plenty of alternative, natural dyes that are a far safer choice. Each year, approximately 15 million pounds of synthetic dyes go into the U.S. processed food supply.

But, many companies in the food industry are only in it to make a profit, and could care less about the long-term effects artificial dyes have.

According to (opensecrets.org), in the year 2015, there were 236 clients lobbying for the food industry. The top 3 lobbyists in this area were the Grocery Manufacturer’s Association, PepsiCo Inc., and the American Beverage Association.

“American’s are now eating 5 times more food dye than in 1955.” (http://www.special-education-degree.net)

Products Containing Artificial Dyes

  • Candy
  • Beverages
  • Ice Cream
  • Baked Goods
  • Cereal
  • Sausage
  • Pickles
  • Orange Peels
  • Cosmetics
  • Dog Food

Artificial dyes have been linked to hyperactivity in children since the 70’s, but because we live in America, the great nation of capitalism, it’s no coincidence why we see an abundance of packaged food products still containing these harmful substances.

Blue Dye number 1 and 2 are linked to cancer in animal testing. Green dye number 3 is linked to bladder cancer. Yellow dye number 6 is linked to tumors of the kidneys and adrenal glands. Red dye number 3 causes thyroid tumors in rats. The most common and widely used artificial color additive is Red #40. This dye has been linked to hyperactivity, lymphomas, and chromosomal damage. These food manufacturer’s try and conceal Red #40 dye by calling it by one of it’s various alias’:

  • Red 40
  • Red No. 40
  • C. I. 16035
  • C. I. Food Red 17
  • Allura Red AC
  • Allura Red
  • FD & C Red No. 40
  • FD and C Red No. 40

Why do Artificial dyes stain?

Remember they are chemicals that are made in a lab, so these dyes are composed of much more complex formulas vs. a natural dye like beet juice. The purpose of these dyes is to last. If any of these dyes get onto your carpet, you better work fast!

Before you get ready to throw down at the FDA offices, take a look at most of the foods that contain artificial dyes. It’s no secret that processed foods are not the healthiest diet option, so be weary of what you allow you and your family to consume. Read the back of nutrition labels and know what to look for. When you’re looking at the ingredients list, if you see any of the following, your best bet is to set it back down, and walk away…

  • Artificial color
  • Caramel Color
  • Red, Blue, Green, Orange, Violet, or Orange followed by a number