Should You Ditch the Dye?

Parents may be surprised to learn that common packaged foods that are popular with children — including macaroni and cheese — contain artificial food dyes.

Cherry Kool-Aid^®, strawberry Pop-Tarts^® and other red, flavored foods get their bright color from an additive known as Red Dye 40. Over the years, this and other artificial dyes have come under fire for potentially causing adverse reactions in children.

Red Dye 40 has been rumored to cause a number of problems, from hyperactivity, aggression and nervousness to uncontrollable emotions. According to a 2007 study published in The Lancet, a mixture of the preservative sodium benzoate and several artificial colorants can cause heightened symptoms of anxiety in children. However, this study and others do not reveal which particular colorant or preservative is responsible.  Matthew Haemer, MD, Pediatric Nutrition Fellow at Children's Hospital Colorado, cautions parents to consider additional factors found in artificially colored foods that also may be linked to hyperactivity and poor nutrition or excess weight gain.

“Foods containing artificial dyes are, by definition, processed foods, which means they contain a significant amount of preservatives and sugar,” said Dr. Haemer. “Each child differs in how he or she reacts to these food additives.”

Keeping Track

If you notice your child acting differently or especially hyperactive after eating a certain food, check the nutrition label for ingredients such as sugar, high-fructose corn syrup (especially if it is listed within the first few ingredients), caffeine, preservatives and artificial food dyes.

In addition to the potential link with hyperactivity, there are many important health reasons to avoid processed foods. These foods contain high amounts of hidden salt, sugar and fat, which can lead to health complications. The additional amounts of salt and sugar also dull the taste buds, so natural foods seem to contain less flavor. To help ensure your child develops a taste for healthy foods, give him or her plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, such as chicken or fish.

A non-processed diet also includes fewer calories, a wide variety of nutrients, low amounts of saturated and trans fats and plenty of fiber. A nutritional expert, such as a dietitian or nutrition specialist at Children’s, can guide families toward a healthy diet that avoids most processed foods.

For more information on safe foods for your child, visit www.childrenscolorado.org and click on “Wellness & Safety.”