The Benefits of Choosing No Artificial Color Candy and Sweet Treats

The Benefits of Choosing No Artificial Color Candy

With the prevalence of processed foods and the use of artificial colors in so many products today, many health-conscious consumers are looking for candy and sweets made without these potentially harmful additives. Choosing no artificial color candy has a number of benefits and allows those with a sweet tooth to indulge while avoiding some of the most questionable ingredients found in conventional candies.

What Are Artificial Colors in Food and Candy?

Artificial colors (also known as synthetic dyes) are added to many processed foods and drinks to make them more visually appealing. Some of the most common artificial food dyes include:

• Red 40
• Yellow 5
• Yellow 6
• Blue 1
• Blue 2

These artificial colors are made from petroleum derivatives and other synthetic materials and offer no nutritional value. They are found in everything from candy to baked goods, cereals, snacks, beverages, condiments, cosmetics, and even pet food.

Potential Risks of Artificial Food Dyes

While the use of artificial food dyes is approved and deemed safe by the FDA, there has been considerable controversy around the potential risks of these additives. Some key concerns include:

• Hyperactivity in children - Studies have found synthetic food dyes may exacerbate behavioral issues like hyperactivity and inattention in children with ADHD.
• Allergic reactions - Artificial food colors can cause allergic reactions in some people, particularly those with sensitivity or intolerance to salicylates.
• Cancer risk - Some artificial dyes have been linked to cancer in animal studies, though more research is needed. Red 40, for example, contains contaminants that may be carcinogens.

While the evidence is not definitive, choosing no artificial color candy and treats can help you avoid these potential risks when possible.

Benefits of Choosing No Artificial Color Candy

When you go with candy and sweets made without artificial colors, you can enjoy the following benefits:

• Avoid controversial ingredients - No synthetic dyes means you'll avoid ingredients like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1 that have been mired in health controversies.
• Peace of mind - Choosing no artificial color candy gives peace of mind to parents and health-conscious consumers trying to avoid potentially harmful additives.
• May help with behavioral issues (for kids) - Eliminating artificial food colors could help improve hyperactivity and behavioral problems in sensitive children.
• Get safe treats for those with allergies/intolerances - Those with salicylate sensitivity can enjoy Halloween, birthday parties, and holidays worry-free.
• More natural - Candy made without artificial colors often means you're getting treats made with more natural, recognizable ingredients.

Finding No Artificial Color Candy Options

Luckily, there are quite a few brands now offering candy and sweets made without synthetic dyes, making it easier to find tasty no artificial color candy options. Here are some things to look for:

1. Read the Ingredient List

Get in the habit of reading the ingredient list, not just the front of the packaging. Look for those artificial color ingredients like Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, and Blue 2. The fewer additives and dyes, the better.

2. Look for "No Artificial Colors" on the Label

Many brands now proudly proclaim that their candy is made without artificial colors. Terms to look for include:

• "No Artificial Colors"
• "No Artificial Dyes"
• "No Synthetic Colors"
• "Naturally Colored"
• "No FD&C Colors"

3. Choose Naturally-Colored Candy

Look for candy made with natural sources of color like turmeric, annatto, berries, beets, and fruits/vegetables. While these often provide hues like yellow, red, or orange, it ensures no artificial dyes are used.

4. Opt for Naturally Pale Candy

Candy like gummy bears, dots, and jelly beans often have vibrant, unnatural colors. Choose the versions made without dyes that end up crystal clear or pale white. They may look less exciting, but it means no artificial colors were added.

5. Look for Organic and Non-GMO Candy

Candy made with organic ingredients or verified non-GMO ingredients are less likely to contain artificial colors or synthetic additives overall. This includes brands labeled "USDA Organic" or "Non-GMO Project Verified."

Best Bets: No Artificial Color Candy Options

Here are some specific brands and candy products made without synthetic dyes:

YumEarth

YumEarth focuses on organic, non-GMO candy free of synthetic dyes and made with natural flavors. Their gummy bears, sour beans, jelly beans, and fruities are naturally colored using vegetable juices, turmeric, and annatto.

Surf Sweets

Surf Sweets makes organic and non-GMO gummy candy without artificial colors, instead using juices, spices, and botanical extracts to naturally color their products. Their gummy worms, bears, and sour worms are top picks.

SmartSweets

SmartSweets makes low sugar gummy candy without artificial sweeteners or synthetic dyes. Their gummy bears, worms, and peaches get their color from fruit and vegetable juices.

Chocolove

Chocolove crafts premium chocolate bars with ethically sourced cacao and no artificial colors or flavors. Their bars are naturally colored using ingredients like beet powder and paprika extract.

Newman's Own Organics

Newman's Own Organics offers organic candy like gummy bears, licorice, and fruit snacks made without artificial colors and instead colored with natural hues from ingredients like turmeric and annatto.

DIY No Artificial Color Candy

Making your own no artificial color candy at home is also a great option. Here are some ideas:

Paleo Gummy Bears

Make gummy bears with grass-fed gelatin, honey, lemon juice, and coconut oil. Omit any food coloring for see-through gummy bears.

Fruit Snacks

Puree your favorite fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or cherries. Pour into a silicone mold, dehydrate, and enjoy fruit "candy" naturally colored by the fruit.

Coconut Candy

Melt coconut butter with coconut oil, honey, vanilla, and a pinch of sea salt. Pour into molds and refrigerate until set for homemade coconut candies.

Dark Chocolate Bark

Melt non-alkalized cacao powder and honey into dark chocolate. Add nuts and dried fruit if desired and pour onto a parchment lined pan. Cool and break into pieces.

Maple Fudge

Simmer pure maple syrup and mix with coconut cream, vanilla, and a pinch of sea salt. Pour into a parchment lined pan and refrigerate overnight before cutting into maple fudge squares.

The Bottom Line

Choosing no artificial color candy allows you to satisfy your sweet tooth while avoiding controversial and potentially harmful ingredients. Read labels, look for natural hues, and know the best brands to buy or make your own natural candy at home. Your health and taste buds will thank you.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.