California Leads The Charge Against Food Dyes: A Landmark Move For Children's Health

California has become the first state in the country to ban certain food dyes—and more states could soon follow suit. This week, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill prohibiting food containing any of six widely used food dyes in schools due to concerns that they may contribute to behavior and attention issues in some children: Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6. This bold move highlights California's commitment to safeguarding children's health and ensuring a safer food environment.

Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, who authored the bill, stated, "California is once again leading the nation when it comes to protecting our kids from dangerous chemicals that can harm their bodies and interfere with their ability to learn." This statement underscores the urgency of addressing food safety and the potential effects of artificial ingredients on children’s behavior.

Color additives have long been a staple in food production across the U.S. and globally, with many approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, some dyes, especially Red Dye 3, have raised concerns among food safety experts and consumers due to their alleged links to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Understanding the implications of these additives is crucial as more states contemplate similar actions.

Which States Could Ban Food Dyes?

Following California's landmark decision, nine other states are currently considering legislation to ban specific food dyes and additives. These states include:

• Illinois - Red Dye 3
• Maryland - Red Dye 3
• Missouri - Red Dye 3
• New Jersey - Red Dye 3
• New York - Red Dye 3
• Pennsylvania - Red Dye 3, Red Dye 40, Yellow Dye 5, Yellow Dye 6, Blue Dye 1, and Blue Dye 2
• Rhode Island - Red Dye 3
• South Dakota - Red Dye 3
• Washington - Red Dye 3
• West Virginia - Red Dye 3

These states aim to implement comprehensive bans on certain dyes statewide, not just within schools. Red Dye 3, or Erythrosine, is a petroleum-based color additive known for giving foods and beverages a vibrant cherry-red hue. It's noteworthy that a database maintained by the Environmental Working Group indicates that over 2,700 products available in the U.S. contain Red Dye 3, raising significant health concerns.

Are Food Dyes Bad For You?

Research has indicated that the use of Red Dye 3 may be linked to causing or worsening "hyperactivity, inattentiveness, and other behavioral problems in children," according to The Center for Science in the Public Interest, which supports the California bill. Dr. Jamie Alan, an associate professor at Michigan State University, noted in an interview that studies have demonstrated an "association between Red Dye 3 consumption and an increase or exacerbation of ADHD symptoms in children."

Despite these studies, it's important to note that no conclusive link has been established between food coloring and ADHD. WebMD explains that while some studies suggest an association, ADHD is likely caused by a combination of brain structure changes, environmental factors, and heredity. This complexity highlights the need for ongoing research and careful consideration of food safety regulations.

The FDA has emphasized the importance of reassessing the safety of chemicals in food as new data emerges. In a statement, the FDA acknowledged that while most children do not experience adverse effects from consuming foods with color additives, some children may show sensitivity to them. As this conversation continues, it’s essential for parents and consumers to stay informed about the ingredients in the foods they choose.

In 1990, the FDA rejected a petition to permit Red Dye 3 in cosmetics and topical drugs due to its carcinogenic effects observed in animal studies. However, the FDA also pointed out that the mechanism by which Red No. 3 causes cancer in animals does not occur in humans, suggesting that animal studies may have limited relevance to human health.