- Located in Naples, Florida
For some of us October means costumes, celebrations & LOTS of colorful treats! Before the candy bowls start filling up, this is a great month to take a closer look at what creates those bright colors.
Flip the label!
Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1 & Blue 2 are synthetic food dyes commonly found in candy, drinks and snacks.
Why should parents care?
Research suggests that synthetic food dyes may affect attention, activity and behavior in some children which is especially relevant when we’re trying to help little brains learn and focus! Not every child responds the same way, and some may be more sensitive than others.
A simple swap: Look for treats colored with fruit & vegetable juices, beet, turmeric or other naturally derived colors.
Family Challenge This Week!
Have your kids grab a piece of candy and flip the wrapper over together. Can they find what gives it its color?
No fear. Just awareness, better choices & a little label reading!!
*Want to dig deeper?*
Nigg JT, et al. *J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry.* 2012;51(1):86–97.e8.
