The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) periodically requests a reassessment of the safety of food additives to ensure that the evidence remains current and that contemporary consumption patterns and industrial applications are considered. This recent investigation is part of ongoing safety evaluations of additives that the organization has previously classified as safe, in collaboration with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA).
In addition to Tartrazine and Allura Red 4C, researchers also found no safety concerns regarding Ponceau 4R, a colorant approved in Europe but not allowed in the United States. These three food dyes were part of the Southampton Six study, which linked six artificial food colors and a preservative, sodium benzoate, to hyperactivity in children back in 2007. This study caused significant upheaval in the food industry and provided a substantial boost to the market for natural colors. However, EFSA and other global experts deemed the study fundamentally flawed, leading them to reaffirm their position on the safety of these colorants. Nonetheless, European regulators adopted a precautionary stance by requiring warning labels, while the FDA refrained from taking similar measures despite calls from the Center for Science in the Public Interest to ban these colors or at least impose warning labels.
Among the three other colorings from the Southampton Six not evaluated in this recent safety assessment, two are not utilized in the United States, though they are permitted within the EU. The third, Sunset Yellow, is known as FD&C Yellow 6 in food products, and no toxicity has been identified at the levels used. In fact, EFSA has even raised the acceptable daily intake for this coloring.
Regardless of the findings, the food and beverage industry has made significant progress in reformulating products with natural colors, especially those aimed at children. According to a report from UBIC Consulting, the market for natural colors has been expanding at an annual rate of about 10 to 15%. Despite extensive research affirming the safety of artificial colorings, consumers increasingly prefer their food to be as natural as possible. When the Southampton study was released, many were shocked to learn that manufacturers used artificial colors despite the availability of natural alternatives.
Given a choice, most consumers tend to opt for natural products over artificial ones; however, if the distinction isn’t emphasized, many still gravitate toward more vibrantly colored items—a consideration for manufacturers. As a result, numerous food companies are phasing out artificial colors and flavors from their offerings. A 2014 Nielsen study indicated that over 60% of U.S. consumers considered the absence of artificial colors and flavors an important factor in their food purchasing decisions. For instance, General Mills has eliminated artificial flavors and colors from some of its cereals, and Campbell Soup has pledged to remove these additives from its North American products by the end of 2018. Additionally, many other food manufacturers have announced similar initiatives.
In the realm of dietary supplements, products like Bariatric Advantage calcium citrate chewable tablets 500mg have gained popularity among consumers who are increasingly health-conscious. These tablets provide a convenient source of calcium, aligning with the trend towards natural and beneficial ingredients. As the demand for transparency and health-oriented products continues to rise, manufacturers will likely need to adapt their formulations to meet consumer preferences. The focus on natural ingredients, including the incorporation of beneficial supplements like Bariatric Advantage calcium citrate chewable tablets 500mg, reflects a broader shift in the market towards health-conscious choices.