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Food Coloring: What Are They Hiding?Food coloring or color additives as the FDA calls it is defined as "a color additive is any dye, pigment or substance that can impart color when added or applied to food, drug, cosmetic or the human body." These additives are either "certifiable" or they are "exempt from certification". The certifiable ones are man made. The exempt are pigments gotten from natural sources. It is interesting to note that man made versions of the natural pigment are also exempt. I know... It doesn't quite add up for me either. The certifiables come in "dyes" and "lakes". A dye dissolves in water. They can be powders, granules or liquids. Lakes are a form of dye, but they are water insoluable. These would be used in coated tablets, cakes and donut mixes, hard candies and chewing gum. An example of a food coloring is FD&C Yellow #5. The initials stand for approved use in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. This color is also known as "tartrazine". Either name may be on the label. It is used in beverages, dessert powders, candy, ice cream and other foods. This color additive is linked to hives as an adverse reaction. It must be listed on the label of the product. Another example is FD&C Yellow #6, also called Sunset Yellow. It is used in cereals, baked goods, snacks and other foods. Sidebar Colors starting with "D&C" have been approved in drugs and cosmetics. Colors with "External D&C" before the color have been approved for use in external drugs (like ointments) and cosmetics. In the US, the FDA regulates coloring. In Canada the Food and Drug Act sets out the rules. Everyone wants attractive food that is the right color, right? Sure, me too. But why is coloring needed for this end? Food processing and nutrient starved soil not only effects the food value, but also the appearance. So ask yourself "Do I really want to eat food that has to be fixed with an additive?" Return from Food Coloring to Food Additives
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