- Green dye gives a bright green color but may be harmful to health
- E142 damage: from mild allergies to thyroid problems or hyperactivity
- Synthetic food colors can be replaced by natural dyes
Green dye gives a bright green color but may be harmful to health
In the world of food production, hardly any companies can do without various food additives. They are needed not only to make foods look prettier and brighter in color but also to ensure that they last longer without spoiling, altering their appearance, and so on[1].
It is true that while some additives are indeed essential, food colorings are only intended to create a variety of colors that are attractive to shoppers. However, these colors are often rewarded not only with pretty colors but also with the possibility of various health problems.
One such synthetic food coloring is E142, also known as Green S. E142 was first synthesized in the late 19th century. It is a dye that is extracted from coal tar.
Green S is used in both beverages and food products. It can be found in sweets, desserts and even sauces and canned vegetables. It has been used for many years by various manufacturers to produce a bright green color that lasts well, doesn't fade, and is a definite eye-catcher for customers. It is also used in combination with other synthetic dyes to produce different colors.
However, despite the attractive appearance it creates, E142 is considered to be a non-recommended food additive and is unlikely to be compatible with a healthy diet. It should especially be avoided by people who have thyroid problems or are overweight, as higher levels of Green S can make the situation worse[2].
E142 damage: from mild allergies to thyroid problems or hyperactivity
E142 food coloring is considered safe by food safety authorities so far. However, experts say that safety is only assured if the limits set for intake are respected. These limits can be exceeded if large quantities of foods colored with the dye are eaten or if food manufacturers do not comply with the rules.
However, despite official claims that Green S is safe to consume in small quantities, there is a growing debate about possible side effects. Of course, the most important risk, which is also common to many other synthetic colors, is allergic reactions. Allergies can be manifested by skin rashes, itching, or more severe allergic reactions.
The food color E142 can also cause various digestive problems. This includes gastrointestinal discomfort, stomach pains, and diarrhea. Green S has even been linked to hyperactivity in children, thyroid problems, and weight gain. Therefore, it should be used with extreme caution by all children or persons prone to allergies.
In addition, some animal studies have shown a possible link between synthetic food colors and harmful carcinogenic effects. Although there is still a lack of comprehensive studies in humans, this is still a cause for concern, which is why food regulators have set maximum permitted levels for food colors. Norway, Finland, Sweden, Japan, China, and the USA have banned the use of E142 altogether[3].
Synthetic food colors can be replaced by natural dyes
Synthetic food colors are particularly favored by the food industry because they can be used at a wide range of temperatures, are long-lasting, and are much more vibrant than natural products. So, food manufacturers no longer have to wonder how to create a more appealing appearance when synthetic materials are perfectly suited to the task.
However, synthetic dyes can actually be replaced by a variety of natural dyes. However, they may not be as vibrant or last as long as the desired color. But when it comes to health, many people would probably prefer to choose less brightly colored products if they knew they were much healthier.
Popular natural colors that give a green color that you can try in your kitchen include:
- spinach powder: it gives a natural green color and can be used in a variety of baked goods, drinks, and other foods;
- matcha powder: this is derived from green tea leaves and is commonly used in desserts and drinks to give them a bright green color;
- spirulina: a type of greenish-blue algae suitable for use in some foods.
And to avoid synthetic food colors in food products, labels should be read carefully. It is best to choose products that are as natural as possible and with as few additives as possible.
