Specimen No. 0065
AvoidSyntheticfood additivedye
Artificial Food Dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1)
red 40 · fd&c red 40 · yellow 5
Petroleum-derived synthetic dyes used in food. Several are banned or require warning labels in the EU. Meta-analyses link them to hyperactivity in children.
high confidence
Researched April 18, 2026Specimen 0065Artificial Food Dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1)
Concerns
- Meta-analyses show increased hyperactivity in children (Southampton study)
- EU requires "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children" warning for Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6
- Several have been linked to potential carcinogenicity in animal studies [inference]
- Red 40 contains benzidine — a human carcinogen — as a trace contaminant
Regulatory flags
- ⚑EU requires behavioral warning label on foods containing these dyes
- ⚑Several FD&C dyes not approved in EU
Commonly found in
CandyCerealSports drinksSodaMaraschino cherriesProcessed snacks
Sources & references
Last researched: April 18, 2026
Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.
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