Red 40 is one of the most common artificial food dyes used in a variety of different foods, such as chips, cereals, candies, and soft drinks. However, in recent times, red 40 has come under major scrutiny due to one of its primary ingredients being petroleum.
This has made many individuals worry about the products they love. Sophomore Jackie Skonier agreed that she “gets why they’re doing it, but at the same time she’s gonna miss the things that have it.” Peoples’ fondness for products made with red 40 have ultimately made people question if the risk of eating it is worth consuming the food.
The main reason why the inclusion of petroleum in Red 40 has become so controversial is that it has been found to be a potential link to the development of cancer. Various tests done on animals that have ingested red 40 have shown that red 40 is linked to the growth of tumors in them, though the findings are not yet conclusive for humans. However, it still raises a strong concern about what could potentially happen to humans that consume a large amount of red 40 on the regular.
“I would say the ban is probably good considering what it can cause,” stated CMS teacher Mrs. Wilds. As we start to gain knowledge on the topic, consumers are realizing the ban will be a step in the right direction.
People also believe that Red 40 can affect child behavior, causing hyperactivity and attention problems. Studies have shown how Red 40 can cause these effects in children and how it can cause ADHD. This has become a major issue, with families going as far as to consulting professionals. “I’ve known a few people that had sensitivity, and other than the color, it doesn’t have much of a purpose,” stated CHS teacher Ms. Straub,”so I don’t think it’s a big deal.”
Red 40 is so common it has become a staple in some people’s lives. It’s in popular candies, chips, drinks, and more people have grown used to its association with food and its vibrant color to the point where people will be disappointed if it were to be taken off the shelves. “I’m going to miss the flavor it adds to the food that has it,” stated freshman Annabella Doto.
In addition, the dye’s popularity in the food industry has caused people to not want it to be banned as they don’t realize the bad side effects it can contain.
“I think it’s good but even though people might miss the food, it’s really not good for you,” explains freshman Lilah Jamieson. Some people don’t realize how bad it is for you and they keep eating it because they don’t know what it’s doing.”As the ban becomes more serious, people are starting to realize that red 40 needs to go.
