Red 40: America’s Most Popular Artificial Food Dye Faces Scrutiny

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Red 40: America’s Most Popular Artificial Food Dye Faces Scrutiny
Artificial Food DyeRed 40Health Concerns
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The widespread use of Red 40, a common artificial food dye, is being re-examined due to concerns about its potential health effects. Despite being classified as 'low concern' by the EPA and WHO, studies have suggested a link between Red 40 and hyperactivity. Increased public pressure and legislative action, including a ban in California public schools, are pushing the FDA to consider a potential ban on artificial food dyes.

Thousands of chemicals are permitted for use in the commercial food system in the United States. However, many of these substances, despite undergoing initial review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ), haven't been comprehensively reevaluated for decades. Red 40 , for instance, was first registered with the FDA in 1971 and its last health risk assessment by the Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA ) occurred in 2014.

This artificial coloring agent, derived from petroleum and also known as Allura Red AC, stands out as one of nine common artificial food dyes. During its production process, Red 40 is combined with aluminum to create Red 40 Lake, which is insoluble in water to prevent color bleeding in products like chewing gum. The FDA mandates that each batch of Red 40 undergoes screening for purity certification and potential contaminants. Notably, Red 40 is the most widely consumed artificial food dye per pound among the three prominent food dyes found in over 36,000 food products sold in the U.S. Scientific studies have hinted at a potential connection between Red Dye 40 and hyperactivity, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Some reports even suggest improvements in behavior and attention when these dyes are eliminated from diets. Dr. Kantha Shelke, founder of food science research firm Corvus Blue and a member of the Institute of Food Technologists, shared these insights with ABC News.The resurgence of concern surrounding artificial food dyes in America is partly fueled by the vocal criticisms of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Kennedy, who President-elect Donald Trump has suggested might lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in his administration, has publicly expressed his intention to 'Make America Healthy Again' if confirmed as HHS secretary. This includes cracking down on ultra-processed foods, many of which contain additives. As with most issues concerning commercially processed food and potential health impacts, more research is essential to determine the specific amounts and ingredients that could be deemed unsafe for consumption. At a recent Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee meeting, agency heads were pressed on the matter. Food manufacturers have been given a deadline of 2027 to reformulate their products, while drugmakers have until 2028. At least two studies have indicated a link between high levels of Red 3 and cancer in rats. However, the FDA emphasizes that this link does not translate to humans. While studies in other animals and humans have not found this cancer connection, an FDA regulation prohibits the agency from authorizing any color additive found to induce cancer in humans or animals, prompting the agency to consider revoking the authorization for this particular food dye. The task of rectifying course in food regulation isn't insurmountable, as heightened public concern has spurred recent legislation. By the end of 2027, food served in California public schools must be free of any products containing artificial food colors – including Red 40 – thanks to a new law.Historically, the FDA has been reactive, addressing public health concerns only after external pressure in the form of petitions, lawsuits, or state-level bans,' Shelke told ABC News. 'The FDA's potential move to ban artificial food dyes may gain momentum as lawmakers in 10 states follow California's lead by introducing similar legislation.' The EPA and WHO classify Red 40 as 'low concern' and note that most people typically don't consume enough of it to pose a problem

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Artificial Food Dye Red 40 Health Concerns FDA EPA WHO Food Regulation Public Health Hyperactivity ADHD California Ban

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