Food Dye and Children

As parents we can all relate to the fact that our children always seem to have more energy than we do. We may resort to coffee, tea or soda to increase our energy level and keep up with our little ones. While I may need this something extra to keep me going, my children do not. I do my best to limit any unneeded, additional sugar in their diet, and they do not consume caffeinated beverages. But I’ve wondered what might be at the root of their excess energy and just recently stumbled across an article that offers a possible explanation.

The article explained how food dyes have been linked to hyperactivity in children, and while I was surprised to read this, I at first didn’t take it to heart. After all, I was sure that my children didn’t consume many food items containing dyes. I was wrong.  Unknowingly, I have been feeding my children many foods that contain food dyes. 

Food dyes are chemicals derived from petroleum, and 15 million pounds of dye are used every year in the United States. At one time, 91 different dyes were approved for use in food, drugs and cosmetics. Many of these have been removed or restricted by the FDA, and currently nine remain available to use: blue 1, blue 2, green 3, red 3, red 40, yellow 5, yellow 6, FD&C Lakes (combinations of colors) and citrus orange 2. WebMD states that the relationship between food coloring and hyperactivity in children has been examined for more than 30 years with mixed results. At this time, no conclusive evidence has been found, but many studies have found an association between the two.        

I have used food dye when making cookies, cakes and frostings a time or two, but hoped that was the only exposure my children (and I) had to the food dyes. I found it in surprising places, though. www.100DaysOfRealFood.com started a petition to ask Kraft to remove the yellow food dye from their macaroni and cheese; however, at this time, the manufacturer still includes it. This dye is not added to the product in other countries and is obviously not a necessary addition. Other surprising places food dyes show up are Yoplait Light & Fit® yogurt, fruit snacks, Flintstones™ vitamins, Lunchables®, Crystal Light® drinks, pre-made frostings (including white icing), Boboli® pizza crust, Pillsbury® crescent rolls, pickles and even some whole grain cereals, such as Life®. I could go on and on. 

I think it is important to realize that these dyes are on the grocery store shelves, in our pantries and refrigerators, being consumed by our little people. And the effects they have on our children’s behavior is still unknown, with numerous studies finding a link to hyperactivity. I am realistic that I cannot eliminate all food dye, but also know that by being more aware, I can do my best to limit my children’s exposure. I have found that many organic options do not contain food dye and I will be switching to more of these for the benefit of my children.

Jessica Heine is a labor and delivery nurse who is making small changes to take her family’s already healthy lifestyle to the next level.