Artificial dyes are a red flag 🚩 “In the crusade to reduce chronic disease and neurobehavioral issues in the United States, synthetic food dyes are a hot target. California began paving the way for legislation against petroleum-based synthetic dyes a few years ago, based on health concerns including a potentially increased risk of cancer and neurobehavioral issues in children and animals. Gov. Gavin Newsom banned red dye No. 3 in 2023 and six other common dyes from school foods in 2024. Since then, 25 other states have followed in California’s footsteps with legislation — some signed into law, others still in progress — that would either ban, restrict or require labels for food dyes.” But, just because an ultra processed food does not contain artificial dyes, does not mean it is healthy. Even naturally dyed alternatives can still be filled with other additives and excess sugar etc. “Ultra processed foods, or UPF, comprise up to 70% of the US food supply and are made with industrial techniques and ingredients “never or rarely used in kitchens,” according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. These foods are typically low in fiber and high in calories, added sugar, refined grains and fats, sodium, and additives, all of which are designed to help make food more appealing.” TLDR: prioritize real, whole foods and minimize intake of ultra processed foods, even if they are free of artificial additives #eatrealfoods #artificialdyes #ultraprocessedfood #healthandwellness #foodsystem