Food Coloring Facts

Food coloring are dyes that are used to color food. They are completely safe to eat and are used on many different kinds of foods for various reasons. Because of their safety, they are also used for crafts and for children's art projects. There are many different colors that can be used, especially when primary colors are mixed to make new ones. Try experimenting with them to get new and different colors.

Taste

Color is known to directly affect taste. Manufacturers color foods such as candies in a way that will promote a certain taste or appeal to people.

Natural Colors

Many foods lose their natural color when frozen or processed. Manufacturers use food coloring to restore foods to the color with which consumers naturally associate them.

Aesthetics

Food coloring is also used for aesthetic purposes. Icings and candies, for example, are typically brightly colored and can be used to make baked goods more appealing.

Arts and Crafts

Kids at home or in day care settings often are allowed to make arts and crafts using food coloring. This is because they are safe and widely available.

Regulation

Food coloring is tested, approved and regulated by agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration for safety purposes.