Parents warned about artificial food colourings

IRISH parents are being warned of the dangers of artificial additives in drinks, sweets and processed foods after new evidence emerged about a possible link to hyperactive behaviour in children.

The new UK study, published in the Lancet medical journal, claims artificial food colourings commonly found in these products are linked to hyperactive behaviour and can affect concentration in children.

The findings have caused the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) to advise parents of children who display symptoms of hyperactivity to limit their consumption of these colourings. It has also resulted in the EU Commission asking its food watchdog, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), to evaluate the study.