Things you eat or apply to your skin affect your health - including your skin health! Be Mindful.

The use of artificial food dyes in the food industry and in personal care products has been a topic of controversy for many years. While food dyes may make products more visually appealing, there are concerns about their safety and potential health risks. One particular concern is that some food dyes have been linked to cancer in animals, including popular Red 3 and Green 3.

Red 3, also known as Erythrosine, is a synthetic red food dye that has been used since the 1950s. In 1990, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified Red 3 as a Group 2B carcinogen, meaning it is carcinogenic to humans. Studies have shown that Red 3 causes tumors in the thyroid glands of rats and mice. Despite this classification, Red 3 is still approved for use in the United States and many other countries.

Unfortunately, Red 3 is not the only food dye that has been linked to cancer in animals. There is evidence that several other dyes may also be carcinogenic. For example, studies have shown that Blue 2 and Green 3 cause tumors in rats, and Yellow 4 and Yellow 5 cause tumors in mice. In addition, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 have been found to be contaminated with benzidine or other carcinogens.

Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC or E129, is a synthetic food coloring that is commonly used in a variety of food products, such as candy, baked goods, and beverages.

Many studies conducted on laboratory animals have found that Red 40 is associated with an increased risk of developing tumors in the bladder and other organs.

The presence of carcinogens in food dyes is a serious concern, but it's not the only potential health risk associated with these additives. At least four dyes (Blue 1, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6) have been linked to hypersensitivity reactions, such as hives and asthma attacks.

Blue 1, also known as Brilliant Blue FCF, is a synthetic blue food dye that is commonly used in processed foods, candies, beverages and mouthwash. Blue 1 is considered dangerous, and there have been many concerns raised about its potential to cause and worsen acne.

Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. While there are many factors that can contribute to the development of acne, recent studies have suggested that certain food additives, including Blue 1, may play a role.

A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that Blue 1 and other food dyes can trigger an immune response in the skin, leading to inflammation and the formation of acne. The study also found that some people may be more sensitive to these additives than others, and that eliminating them from the diet may improve acne symptoms.

Blue 2, also known as Indigo Carmine or E132, is a synthetic food coloring that is commonly used in a variety of food products, such as candy, baked goods, beverages, mouthwash and pet food.

A study conducted on laboratory animals found that Blue 2 is associated with an increased risk of developing brain tumors.

Yellow 4, also known as Acid Yellow 4 or E102, is a synthetic food coloring that is commonly used in a variety of food products, such as candy, baked goods, mouthwash and beverages.

A recent study conducted on laboratory animals found that Yellow 4 is associated with an increased risk of developing tumors in the adrenal gland and kidney.

Yellow 5, also known as Tartrazine or E102, is a synthetic food coloring that is commonly used in a variety of food products, such as candy, baked goods, and beverages.

Many studies conducted on laboratory animals have found that Yellow 5 is associated with an increased risk of developing tumors in the adrenal gland and kidney.

Yellow 6, also known as Sunset Yellow FCF or E110, is a synthetic food coloring that is commonly used in a variety of food products, including baked goods, candy, cereal, drinks, and condiments. It is often used to give these products a yellow or orange color.

In addition to food, Yellow 6 is also used in other industries, such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. It can be found in some cosmetic products, such as lip balm and eye makeup, and in certain medications, such as some over-the-counter pain relievers.

Recent studies have suggested that Yellow 6, may has adverse effects on some individuals, particularly those with certain health conditions. For example, those studies have suggested that Yellow 6 exacerbates symptoms of asthma or hyperactivity in susceptible individuals.

These reactions are particularly common in children, and they can be life-threatening in some cases.

Green 3, also known as Fast Green FCF or E143, is a synthetic food coloring that is commonly used in a variety of food products, such as candy, baked goods, beverages, mouthwash, and condiments.

A recent study conducted on laboratory animals found that Green 3 is associated with an increased risk of developing bladder tumors.

Given these health risks, more people are understandably concerned about the use of artificial food dyes in their food. However, it's important to note that not all food dyes are created equal. Some dyes, such as annatto and turmeric, are derived from natural sources and are generally considered safe.

In addition, some companies have begun to voluntarily remove certain food dyes from their products in response to consumer concerns.

If you are also concerned about the potential health risks of food dyes, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure. For example, you can choose products that are free of artificial dyes or that use natural dyes instead. You can also try making your own food coloring using ingredients like beets, spinach, or blueberries. By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself and your family from the potential health risks associated with food dyes.

Red 40: a bright red dye commonly found in soft drinks, candies, mouthwash and baked goods.

Red 3: commonly used in a variety of food products, such as candy, maraschino cherries, and baked goods. It can also be used in personal care products, such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and lipstick

Yellow 4: commonly used in a variety of food products, such as candy, baked goods, and beverages.

Yellow 5: a yellow dye commonly used in snacks, beverages, and condiments.

Yellow 6: a yellow dye used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, such as lip balm and eye makeup, and in certain medications

Blue 1: a blue dye commonly used in candy, beverages, mouthwash, and baked goods.

Blue 2: a blue dye commonly used in candy, baked goods, beverages, mouthwash and pet food

Green 3: a green dye commonly used in candy, beverages, and baked goods.

Carmine: a red dye made from crushed cochineal insects and commonly used in fruit drinks, candy, and yogurt.

Annatto: a yellow-orange dye made from the seeds of the achiote tree and commonly used in cheese, margarine, and snacks.

The use of synthetic additives in food and personal care products has led to a concerning consequence: the pharmaceutical industry will likely continue to conduct laboratory tests on animals for the foreseeable future, as animal testing is a crucial part of the drug development process. Although this method is intended to ensure the safety and efficacy of new medications, it has raised ethical concerns among many groups.

By Alexander Brosda, CEO Sokörpe Laboratories