Tag: Color additives

FD&C certified color additives are overwhelmingly derived from petroleum, not from traditional 'coal tar' sources as they were in the past. This fact often surprises consumers who may assume food colorings come from plant-based origins. Understanding what are FD&C colors made from requires delving into the world of synthetic organic chemistry and strict FDA oversight.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), many aluminum lakes are approved for use in foods, drugs, and cosmetics within specified quantities. This expert-guided article answers the crucial question: is aluminum lake safe to eat?, and delves into the science and regulations that ensure its safety for consumers.

While many are familiar with common food colorings like Red 40, the existence of a red dye 6 is a point of frequent consumer inquiry. The answer is yes, there is a red dye 6, but it is not approved for use in food, a fact that often surprises consumers. Known officially as D&C Red No. 6, this synthetic color additive has specific, regulated applications outside of the food industry.

Red Dye #3, a synthetic colorant, has been heavily restricted in Europe since 1994 due to health concerns. In Europe, what is red dye number 3 called is officially Erythrosine, and it is identified by the E-number, E127, on ingredient lists. The regulatory landscape surrounding this additive is a tale of diverging approaches and evolving scientific understanding on both continents.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), D&C Red No. 33 is a certifiable color additive that is indeed approved for specific uses in drugs and cosmetics, subject to strict regulations and quantity limits. This regulatory status differentiates it significantly from the recently banned color additive, FD&C Red No. 3.

In 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced plans to phase out several synthetic food dyes, including Red No. 3, which has already been subject to stricter regulations in Europe. The answer to "Are there any differences between the US and Europe in terms of regulating these color additives?" is definitively yes, and these discrepancies have significant implications for manufacturers and consumers alike.

Titanium dioxide is a whitening and brightening agent found in thousands of processed food products on U.S. grocery store shelves. Despite its common use, with a recent ban in the EU, many consumers are asking: **what food is titanium dioxide found in?**. This additive serves no nutritional purpose and its safety has been questioned by various regulatory bodies and consumer groups.

Did you know that many green candies use red dye? According to numerous sources, including product ingredient lists, the answer to "do green Lifesavers have red dye" is yes. This is a common practice to achieve the desired color.

According to the FDA, all color additives must be approved through a rigorous process before they can be used in any food product. This guide explains **what food dyes are allowed in the United States**, breaking down the complex regulations governing both synthetic and natural coloring agents to help consumers make informed decisions.