The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) periodically requests reassessments of food additives to ensure that safety evidence is current and that contemporary consumption patterns and industrial uses are considered. This recent investigation is part of ongoing safety evaluations of additives that the authority has previously deemed 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, the researchers did not identify any safety concerns regarding Ponceau 4R, which is permitted in Europe but banned in the United States. These three food colorings were part of the 2007 Southampton Six study, which linked six artificial colors and a preservative, sodium benzoate, to hyperactivity in children. This study caused significant disruption in the industry and provided a substantial boost to the natural colors sector. However, EFSA and other international experts criticized the study for being fundamentally flawed, and EFSA found no need to change its stance on the safety of the colors. Nevertheless, European lawmakers adopted a precautionary approach, requiring warning labels. The FDA did not implement similar measures despite calls from the Center for Science in the Public Interest to ban the colors or, at the very least, to introduce warning labels.
Among the three other colorings from the Southampton Six not included in this latest safety evaluation, two are not authorized for use in the United States, although they are allowed in the EU. The third, Sunset Yellow, is recognized as FD&C Yellow 6 when used in foods. No toxicity has been detected at the levels utilized, and in fact, EFSA has raised the acceptable daily intake for the 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. The market for natural colors has been expanding at an annual rate of approximately 10 to 15%, as reported by UBIC Consulting. Despite extensive research supporting the safety of artificial colorings, consumers increasingly prefer food products that are as natural as possible. When the Southampton study was released, many consumers were shocked to learn that manufacturers used 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 prominently displayed, many might still be drawn to brightly colored items—something manufacturers should consider. A growing number of food producers are eliminating artificial colors and flavors from their offerings. A 2014 study by Nielsen indicated that over 60% of U.S. consumers consider the absence of artificial colors and flavors as a crucial factor in their food purchasing decisions. For instance, General Mills has removed artificial flavors and colors from several of its cereals, and Campbell Soup has pledged to eliminate these additives from its North American products by the end of 2018. Many other manufacturers are undertaking similar initiatives, with some reformulating their products to include ingredients like calcium citrate 500 for added nutritional benefits.