The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) periodically requests reassessments of food additive safety to ensure that the evidence is current and that consumption patterns and industrial applications are considered. This latest research is part of ongoing safety evaluations of additives that the organization has previously deemed safe, in alignment with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). Aside from Tartrazine and Allura Red 4C, researchers found no safety concerns with Ponceau 4R, which is permitted in Europe but not allowed in the United States.
The three food colorings were part of the Southampton Six study, which in 2007 linked six artificial food colors and the preservative sodium benzoate to hyperactivity in children, causing significant concern in the industry and giving a substantial boost to the natural colors market. However, EFSA and other international experts identified major flaws in the study and concluded that there was no need to change their stance on the safety of these colors. Despite this, European lawmakers adopted a precautionary approach by requiring warning labels. The FDA, facing pressure from the Center for Science in the Public Interest to ban these colors or at least mandate warning labels, did not take similar action.
Among the other three colorings from the Southampton Six not covered in this recent safety assessment, two are not used in the United States although they are permitted in the EU. The remaining one, Sunset Yellow, is known as FD&C Yellow 6 when used in food products. No toxicity has been associated with its usage levels, and in fact, EFSA has even increased the acceptable daily intake for this coloring.
Regardless of the studies’ findings, the food and beverage industry has made considerable 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 growing by approximately 10 to 15% annually. Even with extensive research backing the safety of artificial colorings, consumers increasingly prefer their food to be 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.
Given the option, most consumers opt for natural products over artificial ones; however, if the distinction is not emphasized, many still gravitate towards brightly colored items, which is something manufacturers should consider. A growing number of food manufacturers are eliminating artificial colors and flavors from their products. A 2014 Nielsen study indicated that over 60% of U.S. consumers regarded the absence of artificial colors and flavors as an essential factor in their food purchasing decisions. General Mills has removed artificial flavors and colors from some 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 the realm of nutrition, products like solaray calcium citrate with vitamin D3 have become popular as consumers continue to seek healthier, more natural options. This trend reflects a broader consumer shift towards clean labeling and the desire for transparency in food ingredients. The growing preference for natural additives, including formulations that may incorporate ingredients like solaray calcium citrate with vitamin D3, underscores the industry’s response to consumer demands for healthier choices.