Synthetic Dyes in US Foods Linked to Health Concerns for Children

Washington, D.C. — Nearly 20% of packaged foods and drinks in the United States contain synthetic food dyes, a recent study found. This research, conducted by The George Institute for Global Health and published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, analyzed over 39,000 grocery products.

Synthetic dyes are often added to enhance the color of products targeted at children. However, research suggests these additives may contribute to behavioral problems like hyperactivity. Foods marketed towards children contained significantly more artificial colors, with 28% of such products featuring synthetic dyes compared to just 11% in other food categories.

The study also found that these brightly colored products generally had higher sugar content, averaging 33.3g of sugar per 100g—141% more than products without dyes.

Dr. Elizabeth Dunford, a Research Fellow at The George Institute, expressed concern about the presence of synthetic dyes. “The high levels of sugar in these brightly colored products suggest that companies use synthetic dyes to market sweet foods, both of which are linked to poor health outcomes,” she said.

Among major brands, confectionery companies were found to have the highest usage of synthetic dyes, led by Ferrero at 60% and Mars at 52%. PepsiCo‘s energy drinks showed that over half contained these additives, as did 79% of sports drinks.

Dr. Thomas Galligan from the Center for Science in the Public Interest criticized the FDA’s reliance on voluntary reform to address the issue. “The FDA recently asked the food industry to phase out synthetic dyes voluntarily, but many brands have failed to keep such promises in the past,” he stated.

Some states are taking action against synthetic dyes, with new bills introduced this year in dozens of U.S. states. Dr. Dunford urged consumers to check labels for synthetic dyes and high sugar levels, particularly for children’s products. “If a product contains either, you are better off not buying it, especially for your kids,” she advised.

The study highlights the need for stricter regulations similar to those in Europe, where consumers are better informed about food additives through mandatory labeling.