health
Data too weak to link food dyes with ADHD, panel says
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted April 25, 2011
There are not sufficient data to support a link between children's consumption of certified color additives in food and hyperactivity or other behavioral problems, according to an advisory committee of the Food and Drug Administration.
The Food Advisory Committee met March 30-31 to discuss a possible association between food dyes and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children. About one in 10 children ages 4 to 17 has been diagnosed with the neurobiological condition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Although the FDA committee concluded that a link could not be made, it suggested that additional safety studies be conducted. Such studies could include developmental neurotoxicity testing of color additives (link).
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2011/04/25/hlbf0425.htm.