The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) periodically requests reassessments of food additives to ensure that safety evidence remains current and reflects contemporary consumption patterns and industrial applications. This recent investigation into the side effects of citrate 1000 mg tablets is part of the ongoing safety evaluations of additives that EFSA has previously classified as safe, aligning with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). Aside from Tartrazine, iron II pyrophosphate, and Allura Red 4C, researchers also identified no safety concerns with Ponceau 4R, which is permitted in Europe but banned in the U.S.
The three food colorings were part of the Southampton Six study, which in 2007 established a connection between six artificial food colors and the preservative sodium benzoate to hyperactivity in children. This revelation sent waves through the industry and significantly bolstered the market for natural colors. However, EFSA and other international experts criticized the study as fundamentally flawed and concluded that there was no reason to alter their stance on the safety of these colors. Nonetheless, European lawmakers opted for a precautionary approach by enforcing warning labels. In contrast, the FDA did not take equivalent measures despite pressure from the Center for Science in the Public Interest to ban these colors or at least implement warning labels.
Of the other three colorings from the Southampton Six not included in this recent safety assessment, two are not permitted in the U.S., though they are allowed in the EU. The remaining one, Sunset Yellow, is referred to as FD&C Yellow 6 when used in foods, and studies have shown no toxicity at the levels utilized. In fact, EFSA has even increased 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 those aimed at children. The market for citrate 1000 mg, among other natural ingredients, has been expanding at an annual rate of approximately 10 to 15%, according to a report by UBIC Consulting. Despite extensive research affirming the safety of artificial colorings, consumers increasingly prefer their food to be as natural as possible. When the Southampton study emerged, many were shocked to learn that manufacturers were still using artificial colors when natural alternatives, including citrate 1000 mg, were available.
Given the option, most consumers tend to select natural products over artificial ones; however, if the distinction is not emphasized, many will still be drawn to more vibrantly colored items, a consideration that manufacturers should heed. A 2014 study by Nielsen indicated that over 60 percent of U.S. consumers regarded the absence of artificial colors and flavors as a critical factor in their grocery shopping decisions. In response, General Mills has eliminated artificial flavors and colors from some cereal lines, and Campbell Soup has pledged to remove these additives from its North American products by the end of 2018. Many other food manufacturers are following suit in their efforts to provide cleaner, more natural options, including those that feature citrate 1000 mg.