The Banning of Red Dye #3: Gatorade, Gummies, Skittles, M&Ms, Cereals, Maraschino Cherries, the list goes on...

Consumer Advocate groups - namely the Environmental Working Group and 23 others - have been pushing for improving the food industry and the health of the people since 2022. Red dye was banned from cosmetics since 1990!!!! People shouldn’t have to be active in politics just to fight for the ability to have safe food. Why does everything have to be so entangled in red tape? Well, here are some facts.

Remember, we all have the freedom to choose whole foods but we shouldn’t have to worry about the government interfering and allowing harmful additives to our food supply.

It will be interesting to see what types of future studies regarding improving our nation’s health occur in the next coming months. As it stands, many of the scientist researchers in our government agencies receive royalties for life after developing a drug or vaccine (NIH).

(https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/encore-food-the-root-causes-of-our-healthcare/id1382804627?i=1000681050037)

Red dyes, commonly used in food products to enhance appearance, have been the subject of scientific scrutiny for potential health concerns. Here's a detailed explanation of why red dye might not be ideal for consumption:

1. Synthetic Composition and Potential Toxicity

Red dyes, such as Red 40 (Allura Red AC) and Red 3 (Erythrosine), are synthetic compounds derived from petroleum. These substances may contain impurities that are potentially harmful.

**https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10502305/

- **Carcinogenic Potential**:

Some studies have suggested that Red 3 is associated with an increased risk of thyroid tumors in animal models. The FDA has acknowledged its carcinogenicity in laboratory tests, but it remains approved for certain uses.

**Reference**: [Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), 2016](https://cspinet.org).

- **Behavioral Effects**:

Research has linked artificial food dyes, including Red 40, to hyperactivity and behavioral issues in children, particularly those with ADHD.

**Reference**: Nigg, J. T., et al. (2012). *Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry*.

** https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9052604/

2.Immune and Allergic Reactions

Red dyes can cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in certain individuals. Symptoms may include skin rashes, headaches, or gastrointestinal discomfort.

How many children do you know with “eczema” now? How many children do you know with asthma and allergy diagnoses?

**Histamine Release**:

Red 40 has been shown to trigger immune responses, such as histamine release, in sensitive individuals, exacerbating conditions like asthma and hives.

**Reference**: Park, M., et al. (2008). *Clinical and Experimental Allergy*

**https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10052599/

**https://culinarysolvent.com/blogs/alcohol-for-chefs/the-impact-of-artificial-food-coloring- on-eczema-a-detailed-examination?srsltid=AfmBOoou8HcCWAzsUe5gdBle1qpWR4Z3jrOwy5WpbjHp-7Km09p_cerG

3. Microbiome Disruption

Recent studies suggest that food dyes, including synthetic red dyes, may negatively impact gut health by altering the gut microbiota, which plays a crucial role in digestion and immune function.

Our gut flora is responsible for 80% of our immunity function and 80-90% of our serotonin production which is a key neurotransmitter that staves off anxiety and improves mental health. Isn’t it interesting…our child gets a cough, cold, fever, or diarrhea and we pump them with red colored medicine and colored gatorade or pedialyte. HMMMM.

Gut Health

A 2021 study indicated that Red 40 disrupted gut bacterial balance, leading to potential long-term health implications.

**Reference**: Shahid, M., et al. (2021). *Frontiers in Microbiology*.

**https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34454997/

4. Environmental and Ethical Concerns

The production of synthetic dyes has environmental implications due to the use of petroleum and the generation of chemical waste. Moreover, animal testing remains a concern for ethical reasons.

Sustainability Issues

The extraction and processing of raw materials for synthetic dyes contribute to pollution and non-renewable resource depletion.

**Reference**: Patel, M., et al. (2019). *Environmental Research*.

Alternatives to Red Dyes

Natural alternatives, such as beet juice, paprika, or anthocyanins from fruits like strawberries and cherries, provide safer options for coloring food without synthetic additives. And why not look into a natural healthy source…common sense to me.

Conclusion

While red dyes may enhance the aesthetic appeal of food, their potential health risks—including carcinogenicity, behavioral effects, and allergenic potential—warrant cautious use. Regulatory bodies, researchers, and consumers are increasingly advocating for natural alternatives to synthetic dyes. It is imperative to have studies conducted to explore the pitfalls of our food industry and enact actual change to promote a healthier nation.

In the mean time, read your nutrition labels and look at your choices - if you see any food dyes listed - red, blue, yellow - you may want to think twice about what you are putting into your body. Think twice about buying gummie type medications, vitamins, supplements. Look for natural foods that supply your bodies with plenty of nutrition and barriers to illnesses.