Can Food Coloring Be Harmful?

Yes, it can It can show signs include Reactions of the following temper tantrums, hyperactivity, aggressive behavior, uncontrollable crying and screaming, kicking, nervousness, dizziness, inability to concentrate and sit still among other findings. Physically you may get frequent headaches or migraines, upset stomach and feel ill after ingesting this additive. So choose wisely on what you by your child.

Interesting to read all the responses. I was googling red 40 to see if it was harmful, I eat strawberry yogurt that contains it very frequently; 4-6 times a week. I'll have to switch to another flavor.

Well, it can be harmful, if you use too much! But I'm sure that if you use a little, once in a blue moon, I think it will be ok, and it won't do too much damage! :)

Red food coloring may cause cancer if you use a lot of it.

Editor's Note: Basically they are made to be safe to eat but there is a difference of opinion on the safety of food coloring, especially some of the red colors.

Thank you for the advise, i have since told her that the food coloring could be harmful to her, and unhealthy. She hasnt asked for it as much, especially since they are learning about healthy choices in school.

Well I wouldn't think letting her have food coloring every day would be a good thing and besides is it good for her to be in this habit of only eating something if it has food coloring? I have 2 young children myself and know how kids can be. Once they get something in their heads, they don't necessarily want to change and they can be a bit quirky. I agree with the poster that said you just have to say NO....I wouldn't buy it anymore or have where she can get at it. She may cry and protest but I can't imagine that she'll give up milk and cereal if she doesn't have that coloring. I just wouldn't let it go any farther or you'll be doing this for a long time down the line. Our kids wanted me to squirt chocolate or strawberry syrup in their milk but I've decided they don't need that sweet stuff and I'm not buying those products anymore. You are the boss, not your daughter!

Why not let her add something healthy to the cereal and milk? Strawberries or raspberries will colour milk red, blueberries - you know what they do! And of course, you can always exert your perogative as parent and just say no to food colouring

I used to use food coloring in my job but we were told to discontinue it because it can cause cancer when it is used a lot. I think I would not let her use it everyday. Research it on the net.

TC in MO

According to sources such as Feingold USA, artificial anything can be a problem if your child is prone to behaviorial challenges. Red #40 is petroleum based and harmful. Other reds are not so much. I would red the contents label carefully and check them out.