The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) periodically calls for a reassessment of food additives to ensure that the evidence supporting their safety is current and that it reflects contemporary consumption patterns and industrial applications. This recent investigation is part of EFSA’s ongoing evaluations of additives that have previously been deemed safe, in collaboration with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). Alongside Tartrazine and Allura Red 4C, the research also found no safety concerns regarding Ponceau 4R, which is authorized in Europe but not permitted in the United States.
These three food colorings were part of the Southampton Six study, which in 2007 associated six artificial colors and the preservative sodium benzoate with hyperactivity in children, causing significant turmoil in the industry and providing a substantial boost to the natural colors sector. However, EFSA and other international experts criticized the study as fundamentally flawed, leading EFSA to maintain its stance on the safety of these colors. Nonetheless, European lawmakers adopted a precautionary approach by requiring warning labels. In contrast, the FDA did not take similar steps, despite pressure from the Center for Science in the Public Interest to either ban these colors or at least impose warning labels.
Among the three other colorants from the Southampton Six not included in this recent safety assessment, two are not used in the U.S. but are allowed in the EU. The remaining one, Sunset Yellow, is referred to as FD&C Yellow 6 in food products. Toxicity assessments have shown no issues with the amounts utilized, and in fact, EFSA has raised the acceptable daily intake for this coloring.
Regardless of the findings from various studies, the food and beverage industry has made significant progress in reformulating products with natural colors, particularly in items aimed at children. The market for natural colors is reportedly growing at an annual rate of 10 to 15%, according to UBIC Consulting. Despite extensive research affirming the safety of artificial colorings, consumers are increasingly inclined to opt for foods they perceive as more natural. The release of the Southampton study shocked many consumers, who were dismayed to learn that manufacturers were using artificial colors when natural alternatives were available.
Most consumers prefer natural products over artificial ones; however, if the distinction is not emphasized, many may still gravitate toward brightly colored items, a consideration manufacturers should not overlook. An increasing number of food companies are eliminating artificial colors and flavors from their offerings. A 2014 Nielsen study indicated that over 60% of U.S. consumers consider the absence of artificial colors and flavors an important factor in their grocery purchases. General Mills has removed artificial flavors and colors from some of its cereals, and Campbell Soup committed to eliminating these additives from its North American products by the end of 2018. Many other food manufacturers have announced similar initiatives.
In this context, it’s worth mentioning that consumers should be aware of the benefits of quality dietary supplements like the best calcium citrate 1200 mg, as they contribute to overall health and wellness. As the trend towards natural ingredients continues, consumers are likely to remain informed about their choices, including the importance of dietary supplements such as calcium citrate. Highlighting natural options and the best calcium citrate 1200 mg could further enhance consumer confidence in food products.