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Food Coloring Allergies in Children

Though rare, allergies to food colorings do occur in children and have the potential to cause the same mild to severe reactions experienced with any other allergies. These reactions range from skin rashes to anaphylaxis (whole body response). Food coloring allergies and sensitivities have also been associated with hyperactive behavior.

  1. Symptoms

    • The symptoms of food coloring allergies can include skin rashes, urticaria (hives or raised welts on the skin), respiratory distress and possibly behavior problems.

    Types

    • Both synthetic food colorings and natural colors derived from plant and animal sources can cause allergic reactions in children.

    Culprits

    • Food colorings are used in many foods children eat, including candies, cheeses and frozen desserts. Some of the colorings known to cause allergies include tartrazine (FD&C Yellow No. 5), annatto and carmine.

    Identification

    • You can identify and treat food coloring allergies by noting symptoms and eating patterns and then placing your child on an elimination diet, eliminating all suspicious foods to see if the symptoms disappear.

    Diagnosis

    • To diagnose a food coloring allergy, a doctor may have to use a challenge test, which exposes the child to the suspected food coloring in a controlled, clinical setting.

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