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Synthetic dyes used as colorants in many common foods and drinks can negatively affect attention and activity in children, according to a comprehensive review of existing evidence published this month by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA).

Funded by the California legislature in 2018, the new report involved a literature review, scientific symposium for experts, peer review process and public comment period. Its conclusions about the behavioral effects of food dyes are grounded in the results of 27 clinical trials in children performed on four continents over the last 45 years, as well as animal studies and research into the mechanisms through which dyes exert their behavioral effects.

Food dyes in products such as breakfast cereals, juice and soft drinks, frozen dairy desserts, candies and icings were linked to adverse neurobehavioral outcomes in children including inattentiveness, hyperactivity and restlessness. Animal studies also revealed effects on activity, memory and learning.