Article by Jason Hankins | Owl Staff
The use of food dyes in snacks and other grocery items has had its place in food manufacturing for centuries, particularly in the United States.
Note: This article shares the opinion of the writer and is not a reflection of views held by Owl Media.
When I was in middle school, my mom started reading food labels for the first time. I didn’t understand why it mattered, I just wanted my rainbow cereal, bright red fruit snacks, and blue slushies. Then, I learned more about Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1, and other potentially dangerous food additives.
Artificial food dyes are everywhere in the U.S., especially in products marketed to kids. What many people don’t realize is that some of these dyes have been linked to behavioral problems, allergic reactions, and even cancer in animal studies.
My younger brother, who has ADHD, used to have daily mood swings and attention issues. After his doctor recommended cutting artificial dyes, his parents removed most processed foods from his diet. The change was dramatic—he became calmer, more focused, and had fewer outbursts. It’s hard to ignore the difference that removing artificial colors made in his life.
The science supports these concerns. According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), studies show that synthetic dyes may worsen hyperactivity in some children. Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 are especially concerning. These are the same dyes found in popular products like Doritos, Gatorade, and fruit-flavored snacks.
It’s even more frustrating to learn that other countries have already banned or restricted these additives. The European Union requires warning labels on products containing certain dyes. Some countries have banned them outright.
“Some argue that banning artificial dyes would be too costly for food companies or limit consumer choice, but public health should come before profit.”
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), food companies have found natural coloring alternatives that are just as effective without the health risks.
So why is the U.S. behind?
The FDA still allows these additives, arguing they’re safe in small amounts. However, if there’s even a chance these dyes harm children—and if safer alternatives exist—why take the risk? Companies like Kraft and Nestlé have already removed artificial dyes from their products in Europe, but still use them in the American versions. That double standard should make all of us ask questions.
Some argue that banning artificial dyes would be too costly for food companies or limit consumer choice, but public health should come before profit. We’ve banned harmful additives before when the evidence became clear, such as trans fats. We can do it again.
Artificial food dyes are unnecessary, outdated, and potentially harmful. As consumers, we have the power to demand better. I’ve started reading labels and avoiding products with synthetic colors. It’s a small step, but if more people do the same, companies will have to respond.
Our food shouldn’t be a science experiment. It should nourish us, not harm us. The U.S. needs to catch up with the rest of the world and ban artificial food dyes for good.