Where It Comes From
Man-made coal/petroleum-derived dye used in processed foods, drinks, candies, pills, and cosmetics; regulatory status varies by country [1][3].
How You Are Exposed
Eating or drinking colored products; using colored medicines/cosmetics; workplace handling of powders or liquids; rarely via dye-contaminated water [1][3].
Why It Matters
Sensitive people may get hives, asthma-like symptoms, or headaches from some dyes [3]; mixtures of synthetic dyes may worsen hyperactivity in some children [4]; some related azo dyes can form aromatic amines—cancer hazards vary and many remain not classifiable [2].
Who Is at Risk
Children with ADHD or sensitivity to dyes, people with allergies/asthma, and workers who manufacture or use dyes [3][4].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Check labels and choose dye-free options; limit brightly colored processed foods; discuss dye-free prescriptions; for workers, use ventilation and protective gear; follow local guidance on color additives [1][3][4].
References
- [1]WHO. Food additives: safety and regulation (JECFA overview). World Health Organization, Fact sheet.
- [2]IARC. Some Aromatic Azo Compounds. IARC Monographs, Volume 8, 1975.
- [3]U.S. FDA. Color Additives in Food: Overview of regulation, labeling, and sensitivities (e.g., FD&C Yellow No. 5).
- [4]California OEHHA. Potential Neurobehavioral Effects of Synthetic Food Dyes in Children, 2021.