There is something about cotton candy and toffees that always catches our attention. Is it the cute shape of the candies or their sweet taste? We think it is the bright colors that make people of all ages instantly crave for these things. That is the magic of food colors – they make your food look even more appealing. But are they safe to eat? This is a question we all think about when we talk about food colors. Let’s find out in this article. Read on.
What are food colours? Why are they considered harmful to health?
Food colors are chemicals developed to improve the appearance of food by giving it artificial colors. According to the International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, food colors were originally synthesized from coal tar and now from petroleum. These colors add brightness to your food, making them a preferred choice among food manufacturers over natural colors.
However, several studies have found risks associated with these food colors. According to a study in the Archives of Disease in Childhood, removing artificial food colors from the diet significantly reduced hyperactive symptoms (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Therefore, food regulatory bodies around the world have banned many types of food colors to reduce toxicity in food.
Also read: Watch: Have you seen an orange coconut? A food blogger spotted it
Photo Credit: iStock
Should you avoid food coloring altogether?
While food colors pose a risk to health, the FDA (United States Food and Drug Administration) has approved certain food colors that are not associated with any health risks and are currently used in a variety of foods. An FDA report states, “Color additives are safe when used appropriately.”
FDA experts further comment, “There is no such thing as absolute safety of any substance. In the case of a new color additive, FDA determines whether there is a ‘reasonable certainty of no harm’ under the proposed conditions of use of the color additive.” Therefore, we recommend that you always look for FDA-approved food colors when choosing a food color for your kitchen.
Also read: Watch: Make sweet boondi in different colours with this super easy recipe
Natural colour alternatives | 5 ways you can add colour to your food naturally:
If you ask us, we would say that the best way is to add colours to your food naturally. And you don’t have to look very far to find those colours. Take a close look in your kitchen, and you will find many options around you.
1. Beetroot for Red Complexion:
Beetroot has a rich natural color that enriches any dish. You need to squeeze the juice from beetroot and use it to add color to your dish.
2. Spinach for Green:
Want a green color in your food? Drink spinach juice. You can use any other green leafy vegetable, but spinach has the most neutral flavor that can add flavor to your food.
3. Turmeric for Yellow Colour:
Turmeric has been used for a long time to add yellow colour to food. But keep in mind that you should add it in small quantity so that the food does not become spicy.
4. Saffron for Saffron Colour:
Another popular food colour, saffron has long been used to add a golden colour to various sweet and savoury dishes. You can soak a few strands of saffron in water or add it to milk as per your requirement.
5. Blue Pea Flower For Blue Colour:
If you are a food lover, you will surely know how popular the blue pea flower has become over time. It is widely used in food, beverages and desserts to get a natural blue color that does not cause any harm to your health.
Choose your food ingredients carefully and enjoy safe and healthy meals every time.
