ADHD: What’s the Deal with Food Colouring and Preservatives?

Friday 7th June 2024

Image of sweets - full of food colouring and preservatives

Hey there! Have you ever wondered what those long, scientific-sounding names on your food labels actually mean? Well, it turns out some of those additives, especially certain food colouring and preservatives, can mess with your mood and behaviour. Yep, it’s true! And it’s not just kids who are affected—adults can feel the impact too.  So, what’s the scoop? Studies have shown that some food colouring and preservatives can lead to hyperactivity and other behavioural changes.

e numbers containing artificial food colouring and additives

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has flagged six particular food colours that are the usual suspects:

  • E102 (Tartrazine)
  • E104 (Quinoline Yellow)
  • E110 (Sunset Yellow FCF)
  • E122 (Carmoisine)
  • E124 (Ponceau 4R)
  • E129 (Allura Red)

 

You’ll find these sneaky additives in loads of tasty treats like:

  • Soft drinks
  • Sweets
  • Cakes
  • Ice cream

 

Yep, all the fun stuff. But here’s the kicker: while these colourings are known to cause hyperactivity in kids (whether they have ADHD or not), they can also affect us grown-ups. Think increased irritability, restlessness, and even trouble concentrating.

 

Practical Tips for Dodging Dodgy Additives

So, what can you do about it? Start by checking those food labels! Here are some tips to help you make smarter choices:

  1. Read Labels Carefully: Get into the habit of scanning the ingredients list on your food. Look out for those E-numbers and try to avoid the ones flagged by the FSA.
  2. Go Natural: Opt for natural food colouring and preservatives. Foods coloured with ingredients like beetroot juice, turmeric, and spinach are safer bets.
  3. Choose Whole Foods: Fresh fruits, veggies, nuts, and other whole foods are naturally free from artificial additives. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients!
  4. DIY Treats: Why not make your own snacks and treats at home? This way, you control what goes into your food, avoiding unwanted additives.
  5. Stay Informed: Apps like FoodMaestro or Yuka can help you identify and avoid harmful additives by scanning barcodes while you shop.

dried fruits only contain natural food colouring and flavours

Making Smarter Choices around Food Colouring and Preservatives

Next time you’re about to grab that bright blue soda or neon candy, remember: A little awareness goes a long way. You don’t have to give up your favourite treats entirely—just be mindful of what’s in them and how they might affect you.

 

  • Swap Sweets: Try sweets made with natural colours, or munch on dried fruits for a sweet fix.
  • Rethink Drinks: Switch to sparkling water with a splash of real fruit juice instead of colourful soft drinks.
  • Baking Fun: Use natural food dyes in your baking projects. Beetroot juice for red, spinach for green—get creative!

 

Stay informed, make smart choices, and keep enjoying your favourite treats—just maybe with a little less artificial colour. Cheers to better behaviour and happier snacking!

Wondering what to read next? Try… Children’s Mental Health: Dodgy Diets and Grumpy Gremlins

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