What is Food Dye?

January 27, 2025 | Source: EWG | by Alexandra Hopkins, EWG Communications Intern

From popsicles to pistachios and from meat to mac and cheese, synthetic food dyes are everywhere. Their vibrant colors make food appealing and increase our appetite.

But many dyes also pose serious health risks.

Made with petroleum-oil-based chemicals, artificial coloring has been associated with various health harms. Health concerns include behavioral and developmental issues in some children and the potential for increased risk of cancer.

The U.S. is one of the few industrialized countries without strict regulations on these harmful chemicals. Many countries, including Australia, Japan and those within the European Union, either restrict or ban these chemicals from use.

EWG is particularly concerned with the potentially harmful effects of seven food dyes: Blue Dye No. 1, Blue Dye No. 2, Green Dye No. 3, Red Dye No. 3, Red Dye No. 40, Yellow Dye No. 5 and Yellow Dye No. 6.