FSA discusses effect of food colours on children

The Board agreed to advise UK Ministers that there should be voluntary action by manufacturers in the UK to remove these colours by 2009. In addition to this, there should be action to phase them out in food and drink in the European Union (EU) over a certain period. The Agency is advising parents of children that by cutting certain artificial colours such as Sunset Yellow (E110), Allura Red (E129), and Tartrazine (E102), this could have beneficial effects. Andrew Wadge, chief scientist of FSA, commented: "This advice is proportionate and based on the best available science. However, we need to remember that there are many factors associated with hyperactive behaviour in children other then diet." Dame Deirdre Hutton, chair of the FSA, went on to explain: "The UK industry has already taken great strides to remove these colours from food; this decision builds on the work already done and will encourage the industry to continue down this path." Yesterday's Board decision does not mean that there is a ban on the use of colours in food and drink products. The UK Ministers will now discuss this matter with other Government departments. These discussions will inform the UK's negotiating position in Europe on this issue. This discussion took place following the publication last September of research into these colours by Southampton University, which published in March. Weblink: www.food.gov.uk