Artificial Food Colours: Hazardous Effect of Artificial Food Colours on Children's Health

Food colour additives are widely used to enhance the visual appeal of food and make it more appetizing. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permits nine artificial colorings in foods, drugs, and cosmetics, while the European Union (EU) allows five artificial colors (E-104, E-122, E-124, E-131, and E-142) in foods. The use of these additives is strictly regulated in the European Union, the United States, and many other countries worldwide and there is a growing concern about the safety of some commonly used legal food colourants and replace the synthetic forms with natural product. However, excessive use of these synthetic colourants may lead to various health hazards, including gastrointestinal disorders and potential carcinogenic effects. The aim presents an up-to-date status of the various concerns from use of colour additives in food. There is a growing knowledge about the safety of some commonly used legal food colourants and there is a trend to replace the synthetic forms with natural products. The European Rapid Alert System for Food notifications and US import alerts concerning food colors are analyzed and trends in fraudulent use of color additives identified. Artificial food colours enhance appearance but pose health risks, including hyperactivity and allergies, especially in children. Regions like the EU enforce strict regulations, while developing areas struggle with misuse. Safer, natural alternatives are in focus, demanding cooperation for improved food colouring practices. This review highlights the importance of consumer awareness and regulatory oversight in the use of synthetic food colours