The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) periodically requests a reassessment of food additives to ensure that the evidence regarding their safety is current and that existing consumption patterns and industrial applications are considered. This recent study is part of the ongoing safety evaluations of additives that the EFSA has previously classified as safe, in collaboration with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA).
In addition to Tartrazine and Allura Red 4C, the researchers did not identify any safety concerns with Ponceau 4R, which is permitted 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 sodium benzoate, a preservative, to increased hyperactivity in children. This finding sent ripples through the industry and significantly bolstered the market for natural food colors. However, EFSA and other international experts criticized the study as fundamentally flawed and found no justification for changing their stance on the safety of these colors. Despite this, European lawmakers adopted a precautionary approach, requiring warning labels. The FDA did not implement similar measures, despite pressure from the Center for Science in the Public Interest to either ban these colors or at least impose warning labels.
Of the other three colorings from the Southampton Six not included in this latest safety evaluation, two are not utilized in the United States, although they are allowed in the European Union. The third, Sunset Yellow, is known as FD&C Yellow 6 in food products, and no toxicity has been detected at the levels used. In fact, the EFSA has even raised the acceptable daily intake for this coloring.
Regardless of the findings, the food and beverage sector has made significant progress in reformulating products with natural colors, especially in items aimed at children. According to UBIC Consulting, the market for natural colors has been expanding by approximately 10 to 15% annually. Even with extensive research affirming the safety of artificial colors, consumers continue to prefer food that appears as natural as possible. When the Southampton study was released, many consumers were shocked to learn that manufacturers were using artificial colors when natural options were available.
When given a choice, most consumers opt for natural products over artificial ones. However, if the distinction is not emphasized, many might still choose products with more vibrant colors—something that manufacturers should consider. More food companies are eliminating artificial colors and flavors from their offerings. A 2014 Nielsen study indicated that over 60% of U.S. consumers regarded 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 some of its cereals, and Campbell Soup pledged to eliminate such substances from its North American products by the end of 2018. Numerous other food manufacturers have announced similar initiatives, including those incorporating ccm calcium tablets as a natural alternative to enhance product appeal.
In summary, while research supports the safety of artificial additives, the growing consumer preference for natural ingredients is reshaping the market landscape, prompting manufacturers to reevaluate their formulations, including the incorporation of ccm calcium tablets to cater to health-conscious consumers.