Are Additives Harmful for Children?

2008-06-09 00:24:08 (GMT) (WiredPRNews.com - Health & Fitness)

Dallas, Texas (WiredPRNews.com) — According to a recent study, children’s behavior problems and hyperactivity are linked to certain food dyes prevalent in many foods that are pitched to children. The Center for Science in Public Interest has urged the FDA to ban eight food colorings. The eight dyes that were reviewed in the study include Yellow 5, Red 40 Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Orange B, Red 3, and Yellow 6. The FDA has battled with the consumer advocacy group for quite some time now on the matter.

FDA spokeswoman Julie Zawisza explains that all artificial dyes are tested and passed through safety reviews before they are approved for marketing. The FDA has reviewed the study linking color additives and children’s behavior. Zawisza says the FDA has not found sufficient reason to find food dyes as harmful for children. Many foods contain dyes to make the food appealing to children or to hide the absence of real food. It is found in cereals, candies, sodas, and snack foods targeted for children consumption.

The Center for Science in Public Interest’s recent petition has requested the FDA to require a warning label on foods containing these eight dyes to raise awareness in consumers. Chief science officer for the Grocery Manufacturers Association, Robert Brackett explains that the artificial colorings’ numerous scientific evidence ensures its safety to be used in foods especially for children. Brackett explains that consumers should continue to buy foods with the artificial dyes as they do not pose a threat to children nor does it affect their behavior in a negative way.

For more information on this topic visit the following link:

FDA urged to ban 8 food dyes
http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/conditions/06/03/dyes.adhd.ap/index.html

Ashley Mathew
Staff Reporter