Sprinkle & Spark

While our blog focuses specifically on numbered dyes (like Red 40 and Yellow 5), there are other artificial colorings you might want to be aware of.

Other Concerning Color Additives:

• Titanium Dioxide – Used to make foods bright white. Recently banned in the European Union due to concerns over DNA damage in intestinal cells (EFSA Journal, 2021).
• Caramel Color (Class III & IV) – Often found in colas and dark sauces. Some types can contain 4-MEI, a potential carcinogen.
• Iron Oxides & Synthetic Lakes – Often used in cosmetics and pills. Less commonly in food but still worth watching for.

We don’t focus on these non-numbered dyes on this blog — our main concern is helping families spot and avoid the most common numbered food dyes in snacks, treats, and everyday products. But it’s good to know what else might be lurking in that colorful label.

Knowledge is power — and now you’ve got even more tools to make safe, informed choices for your family.

Disclaimer: This article shares research-based information for general educational use only. We recommend discussing any concerns with a licensed medical or nutrition professional.