Detox Friday - Artificial colors

This Friday we are going to talk about artificial colors. 

Artificial Colors -  are used in processed foods to give a bright appearance to the food.  This can help influence our perception on taste. Manufacturers use artificial colors because they are easier to manufacture and more consistent than natural colors.  There is a link between artificial colors and ADD. 

The most common artificial colors used contain benzidene which is a known human carcinogen.  Many of these were also banned in other countries.  Below are the most common used, but anything with a color and a number is artificial.  These are clearly labeled on the ingredients list and found in so many items on store shelves like pickles, salad dressing, marshmallows, pie fillings, jelly, juices, vitamins, mouthwash etc. 

• Red #40
• Yellow #5
• Yellow #6

Again, there are alternatives, you just need to know what not to have on the ingredient list and it's easy to find an alternative! 

Natural colors are usually created using beets, spinach, carrots, saffron or turmeric. I have even boiled up cabbage and used the water for a purple color.   These colors may not be as bright as the artificial colors but so much better for your health. 




Source:  The Pantry Principle, Mira Dessy