New Evidence Show Links Between Food Additives and Hyperactivity

Following the publication of new research commissioned by the Food Standards Agency, parents of children showing signs of hyperactivity are being advised that eliminating certain artificial food colours from their diets might have some beneficial effects on their behaviour.

The revised FSA advice follows evaluation of the research by the independent Committee on Toxicity (COT), carried out by Southampton University, which suggests that consumption of mixes of certain artificial food colours together with the preservative sodium benzoate could be linked to an adverse effect on children’s behaviour.

Dr Andrew Wadge, the FSA’s Chief Scientist, said: 'This study is a helpful additional contribution to our knowledge of the possible effects of artificial food colours on children’s behaviour.

'After considering the COT’s opinion on the research findings we have revised our advice to consumers: if a child shows signs of hyperactivity or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) then eliminating the colours used in the Southampton study from their diet might have some beneficial effects. However, we need to remember that there are many factors associated with hyperactive behaviour in children. These are thought to include genetic factors, being born prematurely, or environment and upbringing.

'If parents are concerned about any additives they should remember that, by law, food additives must be listed on the label so they can make the choice to avoid the product if they want to.'

The research was commissioned by the Agency to examine the possible effect of certain artificial food colours, together with sodium benzoate preservative, on children’s behaviour. Two age groups of children were included – 3 year olds and 8–9 year olds. The study tested combinations of colours and a preservative most likely to be found in foods popular with children such as soft drinks, confectionery, and ice cream.

The colours investigated were Sunset Yellow (E110), Tartrazine (E102), Carmoisine (E122), Ponceau 4R (E124), Quinoline Yellow (E104), Allura red (E129) along with the commonly used presevative Sodium Benzoate (E211).

Professor Jim Stevenson from Southampton University and author of the report, said: 'Parents should not think that simply taking these additives out of food will prevent hyperactive disorders. We know that many other influences are at work but this at least is one a child can avoid.'

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