For parents navigating the sometimes confusing world of children's snacks, ingredient lists are a constant point of focus. The question, "Does Petit Filous contain artificial colors?" is common, and fortunately, the answer for most products in the UK is a reassuring no.
What is used for coloring in Petit Filous?
Instead of synthetic dyes, the company uses naturally sourced ingredients to give their products their bright and appealing colors. These natural colorants are derived from fruits and vegetables, ensuring the yogurt and fromage frais remain visually attractive to children without the need for artificial additives. This aligns with a growing industry trend towards cleaner, more transparent food labeling and healthier product formulations.
For example, specific ingredients used for coloring may include:
- Carrot Juice Concentrate: Frequently used to impart a yellowish or orange hue, this ingredient can be found in flavours like strawberry, raspberry, and apricot.
- Pumpkin Juice Concentrate: Adds a rich, warm color to certain fruit flavours, including some apricot varieties.
- Lemon Juice Concentrate: Primarily used for its acidic properties, it can also contribute to color stability and brighten the overall appearance.
- Concentrated Elderberry Juice: Found in some international recipes or dessert lines, elderberry juice provides a reddish-purple color.
The 'Goodness Guarantee'
Petits Filous often promotes its products under a "Goodness Guarantee," which includes a promise to use no artificial colors, flavours, or sweeteners. This marketing commitment provides a clear indication to consumers that they are purchasing a product made with naturally sourced ingredients. For parents, this is a major factor when choosing healthy, trustworthy options for their children.
Not all Petit Filous products are identical
While the commitment to avoiding artificial colors is strong for the main fromage frais and standard yogurt pots, it is crucial to remember that product formulations can vary by market and specific product line. Some specialty desserts or international versions may have different ingredients. For instance, an older "Magic Squares" dessert line included ingredients like 'Carmines,' a natural colorant (E120) derived from insects, which is not suitable for vegetarians. This highlights the importance of checking the ingredient list on every package, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
Comparison of Petit Filous Fromage Frais vs. Specialty Dessert
To better illustrate the differences, here is a comparison between a standard Petit Filous Fromage Frais and an older or specialty dessert line that may use different colour sources.
| Feature | Standard Fromage Frais (UK) | Older/Specialty Dessert Line |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial Colors | Free from artificial colors | May contain some natural colorants like 'Carmines' (E120), derived from insects |
| Color Source | Naturally sourced, typically from fruit and vegetable concentrates (e.g., carrot, pumpkin) | Can use specific E-numbers, including some natural ones not always suitable for vegetarians |
| Suitability for Vegetarians | Generally suitable for vegetarians | May not be suitable for vegetarians if certain natural colors are used |
| Ingredients Emphasis | Highlights "naturally sourced ingredients" and "Goodness Guarantee" | Ingredient list specifies all additives and colorants |
The importance of reading labels
Reading food labels is the most reliable way to confirm the contents of any food product, including Petit Filous. A quick scan of the ingredients list will reveal the specific sources of color. For most core Petit Filous products available in the UK, parents can expect to see natural colorants listed. This practice ensures transparency and allows consumers to make informed choices based on their dietary preferences and restrictions.
Why natural colors are preferred for children's products
There has been a shift in the food industry away from artificial colorants, particularly in products marketed towards children. Concerns have been raised about potential links between certain synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity in some children. By using natural colorants, brands like Petits Filous can appeal to health-conscious parents seeking to minimize their children's exposure to synthetic additives. The use of concentrated fruit and vegetable juices also means a small portion of nutritional value is retained, making it a more wholesome choice overall.
Conclusion
For the vast majority of products on the market, Petit Filous does not contain artificial colors, relying instead on natural colorants from fruit and vegetable concentrates. This commitment is part of the brand's overarching "Goodness Guarantee," which gives parents peace of mind when choosing a snack for their children. However, it is always a good practice to check the ingredient label of any specific product, as older or specialty items might have different formulations. By choosing naturally colored products, parents can help reduce their children's intake of synthetic additives while still enjoying a tasty, colorful treat.
Visit the official Petits Filous website for their FAQ section to learn more about their ingredients.
