The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) periodically requests the reassessment of food additives to ensure that the evidence is current and that contemporary consumption patterns and industrial applications are considered. This latest research is part of ongoing evaluations of the safety of additives used in iron pyrophosphate liposomal tablets, which have already been deemed safe by the EFSA, in alignment 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, the researchers identified no safety concerns regarding Ponceau 4R, a colorant permitted in Europe but not in the United States.
The three food colorings mentioned were part of the Southampton Six study, which in 2007 linked six artificial food colors and the preservative sodium benzoate to hyperactivity in children. This study created significant upheaval within the industry and provided a substantial boost to the natural colors market. However, both EFSA and other international experts criticized the study as fundamentally flawed, and EFSA found no reason to change its stance on the safety of these colorants. Nevertheless, European legislators opted for a precautionary approach, requiring warning labels. In contrast, the FDA did not enact similar measures despite calls from the Center for Science in the Public Interest to ban these colors or at least to mandate warning labels.
Of the three other colorants from the Southampton Six not included in this latest safety review, two are not utilized in the United States, though they are allowed in the EU. The third, Sunset Yellow—known as FD&C Yellow 6 in food products—has not exhibited toxicity at the levels used. In fact, EFSA has even raised the acceptable daily intake for ferrous fumarate and folic acid tablets containing this coloring.
Regardless of the studies, 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, the market for natural colors is growing at an annual rate of 10 to 15%. Despite extensive research confirming the safety of artificial colorings, consumers continue to prefer their food to be as natural as possible. When the Southampton study was released, many consumers were shocked to learn that manufacturers were using artificial colors despite the availability of natural alternatives.
Most consumers, when given a choice, prefer natural products over artificial ones. However, if the difference is not clearly presented, many may still choose more vibrantly colored items—something manufacturers should consider. An increasing number of food companies are eliminating artificial colors and flavors from their offerings. A 2014 Nielsen study found that over 60% of U.S. consumers regarded the absence of artificial colors and flavors as an important factor in their grocery purchases. General Mills has removed artificial flavors and colors from some of its cereals, while Campbell Soup pledged to eliminate such ingredients from its North American products by the end of 2018. Numerous other food manufacturers have announced similar initiatives.
Additionally, the demand for supplements like calcium citrate and magnesium supplements has surged, as consumers increasingly seek natural and health-conscious options. This trend reflects a broader movement towards clean labeling, where consumers are more informed and selective about the ingredients in their food and supplements. The food industry is responding by reformulating products, ensuring that they align with consumer preferences for natural ingredients, including those like calcium citrate and magnesium supplements that support health and wellness.