We’ve been learning about artificial colors this week – exactly what behaviors and illnesses they’re linked to, as well as the fact that other countries recognize their danger.
In places like the United Kingdom, natural food coloring is now the norm. These “exempt color additives” are natural and, with few exceptions, very safe. The colors are taken from plants, animals or minerals. In the U.S., manufacturers generalize these colors as “natural colors” on an ingredient list.
Some of the more recognizable exempt color additives include:
- Annatto;
- Beta carotene;
- Beet powder;
- Caramel color;
- Carmine;
- Red cabbage;
- Saffron;
- Turmeric;
- Fruit and vegetable juices.
Two exempt color additives – carmine and annatto – are known to cause adverse affects in humans. Children with sensitivities should avoid ingesting products made with these colors.Carmine
Carmine is cochineal extract, a red coloring made of the pulverized bodies of dead female cochineal insect. Yes, the red is extracted from ground up bugs.Aside from a gross out factor, carmine is known to aggravate asthma. It also can cause anaphylactic shock. 1
Annatto
Annatto, extracted from South American annatto seeds, is used to naturally color orange or yellow foods. Because its properties easily bind to milk proteins, it’s frequently used to color dairy products like cheese, and cheese items like Goldfish and Cheez-It crackers.
Annatto
Annatto, extracted from South American annatto seeds, is used to naturally color orange or yellow foods. Because its properties easily bind to milk proteins, it’s frequently used to color dairy products like cheese, and cheese items like Goldfish and Cheez-It crackers.
Unfortunately, annatto causes just about as many reactions as artificial colors, including headaches, irritability, restlessness, sleep disturbance, and head banging in young children. 2 My family’s all too familiar with annatto’s reactions – I’ll share our story tomorrow.
Sources
1. “WHO Food Additives Series 46: Cochineal Extract, Carmine, and Carminic Acid.” J. B. Greig. International Programs on Chemical Safety.
2. “Food Intolerance Network Fact Sheet – Annatto.” Food Intolerance Network.Photo credit
Simon Howden/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Simon Howden/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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Hilary Kimes Bernstein is a Christ follower, wife, mama, and journalist. She writes about making healthy decisions that honor God and happen to help the environment at Accidentally Green. Short and sweet - like her writing - Hilary is the author of several healthy living eBooks.
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