Multiple studies have found Yellow 5 to cause hives and asthma symptoms. The three dyes most consumed–Red 40, Yellow 5 and Yellow 6–are the dyes most likely to cause systemic allergic reactions. These same dyes also contain the cancer-causing contaminants Benzidine, 4-aminobiphenyl and 4-aminoazobenzene.
In Australia and New Zealand, this artificial red colour is not permitted to be added to confectionery. However, it is permitted in countries where the samples were manufactured (China, India, USA, and Thailand).
Red 3 causes cancer in animals, and there is evidence that several other dyes also are carcinogenic. Three dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6) have been found to be contaminated with benzidine or other carcinogens. At least four dyes (Blue 1, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6) cause hypersensitivity reactions.
Food Dyes. Commonly used food dyes, such as Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Red 40, pose risks including behavioral problems and hyperactivity in some children. Some dyes also pose a risk of cancer (like Red 3) and allergic reactions (like Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Red 40, Blue 1).
Soft drinks – Sprite, Coke, Diet Coke, Mountain Dew; no red or purple dyes. Gatorade – No red or purple dyes. Any clear drinks – water, lemonade, etc.
Red 40. Red 40, also known as Allura Red, is one of the most commonly used flavoring agents in the United States. However, red 40 is banned in the United Kingdom and Switzerland due to health concerns.
More than 30 years ago the Food and Drug Administration told the cosmetics industry that it could no longer use an artificial color called FD&C Red No. 3, also known as Red Dye No. 3 and Red Dye 3. That's because high doses of it had been found to cause cancer in animals.
Skittles, Pop-Tarts, Gatorade and those yummy Little Debbie's products are banned in the European Union because contain dyes like yellow 5, yellow 6 and red 40. The EU banned these artificial colors after their scientific research indicated they could be harmful to health, especially to young children.
Nine synthetic dyes are approved to use in food by the FDA, but Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 are the ones you'll see on labels the most. Natural food colors are mostly derived from plants including vegetables and fruit, such as beet juice (red or pink) and turmeric (yellow).
AZO dyes. Azo dyes are a group of dyes that are used to dye clothing because they are cheap and produce a strong result, but unfortunately they have a carcinogenic nature when they break down.
Red dye 40 is a synthetic food dye made from petroleum. Research has shown that it is linked to certain ADHD symptoms, such as hyperactivity, and may also cause other neurobehavioral effects in children. People can check for red dye 40 on food labels if they wish to limit their intake.
Currently, the U.S. doesn't ban any artificial food dyes. But some countries say there's enough evidence to justify banning them. Registered dietitian Julia Zumpano, RD, LD, highlights the possible risks associated with red dye 40 foods and how to minimize them.
Another name for Red #40 dye is Allura Red AC and it is a member of the group of coloring called “azo” dyes.
FD&C YELLOW 5 (E102) – Tartrazine: This chemical colourant is approved for use in foods in Australia, New Zealand and the USA.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration certifies that red dye 40 is safe to consume, and they've included it on a list of nine food coloring agents that can be used in food without causing health problems. Other ingredients on this list are common additives you might find in candy, cereal, pastries, ice cream, and yogurt.
In 2012, Gatorade was banned in many European countries for containing brominated vegetable oil and Yellow 5 and 6, which can cause some serious health issues.
Doritos Light
However, side effects of the additive include abdominal cramping and loose stools. The fat substitute also inhibits the absorption of vitamins and nutrients. It's banned in Canada and many European countries.
It turns out Ritz Crackers, among other favorite American foods and products are banned in countries across Europe.
Farmed salmon. American farm-raised salmon is fed astaxanthin to give it its signature coral color. Salmon containing this petrochemical is banned for consumption in Australia and New Zealand.
How does red dye 40 affect behavior? Research shows that red dye 40 has been linked to increased ADHD symptoms in certain children. The increased symptoms include hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
In Australia, the supermarket chain Aldi has removed these six colours from its own-brand products, as well as eight more colours: amaranth purple (123), erythrosine cherry red (127), indigo blue (132), brilliant blue (133), green (142, 143), black (151) and brown (155).
Red 40 is banned in Japan but legal in the UK, US & EU, but outside the US is labelled with a child hyperactivity warning.
A review included in a 2012 issue of the International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health reported that red dye 40, yellow No. 5, and yellow No. 6, have all been found to be contaminated with carcinogens. One of these carcinogens is benzidine, which has been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer.
Additionally, both adults and children have reported upset stomach, migraines, jitteriness, nervousness, and inability to concentrate after a high intake of Red Dye 40. The CSPI released a report that says artificial food dyes pose a “rainbow of risks,” including everything from allergies to cancer.