The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) regularly conducts reassessments of food additives to ensure that the evidence regarding their safety remains current and that contemporary consumption patterns and industrial applications are considered. This recent research forms part of the ongoing safety evaluations of additives that have previously been 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 identified no safety concerns with Ponceau 4R, which is allowed in Europe but banned in the United States.
The three food colorings were part of the Southampton Six study, which in 2007 connected six artificial food colors and the preservative sodium benzoate to hyperactivity in children, causing significant upheaval in the industry and significantly benefiting the natural colors sector. However, EFSA and other international experts deemed the study to be fundamentally flawed, and EFSA found no justification for changing its stance on the safety of these colors. Nevertheless, European lawmakers opted for a precautionary approach, enforcing a warning label, while the FDA did not take similar measures despite pressure from the Center for Science in the Public Interest to either ban these colors or at least mandate warning labels.
Of the three other colorings from the Southampton Six not included in this recent safety review, two are not permitted in the United States but are allowed in 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 research outcomes, the food and beverage industry has made significant progress in reformulating products with natural colors, especially those aimed at children. According to a report by UBIC Consulting, this market has experienced growth rates of approximately 10 to 15% annually. Despite a substantial amount of research affirming the safety of artificial colorings, consumers increasingly prefer natural options. The release of the Southampton study shocked many consumers, who were dismayed to learn that manufacturers were using artificial colors even when natural alternatives were available.
When given a choice, most consumers opt for natural products over artificial ones. However, if the distinction is not emphasized, many still tend to choose items with more vibrant colors—something that manufacturers should consider. A growing number of food manufacturers are eliminating artificial colors and flavors from their products. A 2014 study by Nielsen indicated that over 60% of U.S. consumers regard the absence of artificial colors and flavors as a crucial factor in their food purchasing decisions. General Mills has removed artificial flavors and colors from select cereals, and Campbell Soup has pledged to eliminate these ingredients from its North American products by the end of 2018. Many other food manufacturers have also announced similar initiatives.
In addition, calcium citrate supplements have emerged as a popular choice among health-conscious consumers looking for natural alternatives to address their dietary needs, including those related to calcium intake. As consumers increasingly seek transparency and natural ingredients in their food products, the demand for calcium citrate supplements is likely to continue growing alongside the trend of reformulating with natural colors.