FDA Asked To Outlaw 8 Food Colors

FDA has been urged to put a ban on use of eight artificial food colorings by a consumer support agency, claiming that they lead to hyperactivity and behavioral problems in children.

Center for Science in Public Interest said, that studies conducted for over three decades have showed that some artificial food colors badly affect children's behavior. The consumer group claimed that the British government is convincing manufacturers to adopt safer food colors.

FDA has, so far, always disputed the center's declaration. "Studies conducted have formed no verification that food additives cause hyperactivity or learning disabilities in children" FDA representative said.

Julie Zawisza, FDA spokeswoman, said that color additives go through safety tests before being approved for marketing. She declared that the agency reviewed these studies. "We didn't find a reason to change our conclusions that the ingredients are safe for the general population," Zawisza said. "Also note that the European Food Safety Agency has a similar view as FDA's."

Numerous foods make use of these artificial color additives. Dyes are also used to simulate the color of fruits or vegetables. These food colors are chiefly widespread in the cereals, candies, snacks, sodas targeting children.

"The purpose of these chemicals is often to mask the absence of real food, to increase the appeal of a low-nutrition product to children, or both," said the center's executive director, Michael F. Jacobson.

Robert Brackett, chief science officer of Grocery Manufacturers Association, said that vast scientific evidence confirms the safety of these coloring additives.

"Based on these findings, there is no need for consumers to alter their purchasing and eating habits," Brackett declared. "They and their children can safely enjoy food products containing these food colors."

The colors asked to be banned are-Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Orange B, Red 3, and Yellow 6. The center's petition has asked FDA to come up with warning labels on foods with artificial colors.