Food colours and safe choices

Some food colours in the range 160-163 are generally considered safe and may even be beneficial for health (except 160b, 106c, 160d).

Not every food coloured in the range red, yellow, orange or violet need be avoided if these mostly plant-derived colours have been used. In particular, foods rich in betacarotene and Vitamin A will be naturally vibrant and have health promoting value.

Processed foods may still contain many other types of harmful additives but if the colour red makes your child display ADHD like behaviours, or food coloured orange brings on asthma symptoms then it is good to know that not everything is necessarily on the ‘no go’ list.

Of course, a little caution is always wise and nature always knows best.

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Lindy Schneider is a writer and researcher with a keen interest in health, wellbeing and natural childcare. She is an advocator of a chemical-free lifestyle in the best interests of her family, the community and a sustainable world. She lives in the Yarra Valley with her partner and two young children.