• Artificial colorings can make food look great and appetizing, but there are risks associated with it. Despite the fact that food additives are allowed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, that alone does not mean they are healthy. Numerous studies have demonstrated the dangers of artificial colorings in food, which include the possibility of onset of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), inhibition of the immune system, hyperactivity and allergic reactions.
  
  

Can Inhibit the Immune System

• According to a study published in the September 9, 2005 issue of Science, artificial food coloring can suppress the immune system because it restrains white blood cells' (WBCs) movement from the lymph nodes to the bloodstream, where they usually set off to resist infection in the body. Food colorants inhibit the movement of WBCs from the thymus gland to the lymph nodes, tonsils and other peripheral lymphoid organs. They simply prevent the WBC movement by suppressing an enzyme, which breaks down sphingosine-1-phosaptae (S1P), a signaling molecule that is involved in the regulation of the immune system.
  
  

Hyperactivity

• Based on a study that was conducted by British researchers, preservatives, artificial colorings in food and other additives can increase children's hyperactive behavior. It has been estimated by researchers that if 15 percent of hyperactive children were to go on a food colorant-free diet, the incidence could be lessened to 6 percent. The effects of artificial food colorings are not only seen on hyperactive children but with non-hyperactive children that were tested as well.
  
  

Allergic Reactions

• In a study published in 1978, researchers found that tartrazine, also known as yellow #5, can cause allergic and other reactions like itching, palpitations and weakness in susceptible individuals. This food additive can usually be found in gelatin desserts, breakfast cereals, ice cream, pudding, dry drink powders, bakery products and spaghetti. Allergic reactions to artificial food colorings are not usually reported except for severe cases. Other symptoms of artificial food coloring allergies include respiratory problems (coughing, rhinitis and asthma), skin problems (flushing and urticaria), gastrointestinal issues (bloating, vomiting, abdominal pain and nauseas) and other reactions like headaches and joint aches. Some of the food dyes that have been reported to cause allergic reactions include Red 40, Carmine and FD&C Red #40.