Artificial food colors and health risks
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September 30, 2019
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How food looks like is very important for many. So our food, especially that we eat outside or buy from supermarkets is colorful. In several instances, food looks colorful because of food dyes. Many of these food dyes are very bad for human health.
Reports suggest that some of the food dyes commonly used in food preparation could be cancer causing, cause hypersensitivity reactions and behavioral problems, or are inadequately tested. These dyes may be used in breakfast cereals, candy, snacks, beverages, vitamins, and other products. Besides, some fruits and vegetables are dipped in dye to give a bright color.
Dyes are given a code number along with the color that they give to the food. Each number represents the chemical constituents. Some of the most dangerous food dyes include Red #3, Red #40, Blue #1, Blue #2, Yellow #5, Yellow #6, Green #3 and Carmel coloring.
Some of these food dyes can cause cancer, thyroid disease, allergies, behavior issues, hyperactivity, attention problems, brain tumors, skin irritations, asthmatic reactions, adrenal gland, kidney tumors, etc.
How to protect yourself? You can protect yourself by educating yourself about food colors and their impact so that you make informed decisions when we buy food.
Developed by Scientific Angle brought to you by Health Meter Services
Disclaimer: Don't follow any suggestions in this article without consulting a qualified doctor
References
- Food Dyes: Harmless or Harmful? https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/food-dyes
- Petera C. Diet and nutrition: The artificial food dye blues. Environ Health Perspect. 2010 Oct; 118(10): A428.
- The 7 Most Dangerous Food Dyes to Avoid. https://www.tipsonlifeandlove.com/diet-and-healthy-eating/the-7-most-dangerous-food-dyes-to-avoid
- The 5 Most Dangerous Food Colorings Every Consumer Should Know About. https://oureverydaylife.com/1012071-5-dangerous-food-colorings-consumer-should.html