BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — (KBAK/FOX58) California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed an executive order to examine the potential health risks associated with red food dye, a common ingredient in many processed foods, from cupcake frosting to soft drinks. The order aims to address concerns about the dye’s impact on both children and adults.
Dr. Gokce Soydemir, an economics professor at Stanislaus State University, emphasized the societal costs of red dye. “In the long run, the cost to society is very high,” said Soydemir.
The controversial ingredient has drawn scrutiny not only from Newsom but also from HHS nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Although some claims link red dye to cancer, these remain unproven. However, its effects on children are more widely recognized.
Dr. William Woo, Assistant Chief of Family Medicine at Kaiser Permanente, said, “Red Dye 40 may contribute to hyperactivity and behavioral changes in children. Beyond that, some red dyes can cause things like allergic reactions in some people, causing problems with hives, rashes, asthma, and other skin irritations.”
The governor’s order also includes a review of ultra-processed foods. Soydemir believes that reducing both dyes and processed foods could enhance children’s academic performance. “Food quality is going to increase. And that affects attendance levels. So it has many positive impacts on children, on their health, all the way to their success academically,” said Soydemir.
Soydemir hopes the order will influence younger generations similarly to anti-smoking campaigns in the 1960s. “It’s good that this has been addressed at a very young age so these habits are formed early on. These measures are definitely going to have an effect on society,” he said.
While the focus on dyes is significant, eliminating ultra-processed foods, often laden with chemical additives and preservatives, may prove challenging. Dr. Woo advises a healthier diet, recommending, “What I recommend to my patients is to go to the grocery store. Buy your own food. Shop, generally, on the outside perimeter of the grocery store. That is where your produce is.”
Despite concerns about ultra-processed foods being linked to cancer, Dr. Woo suggests moderation. “I think a common sense approach makes sense here. Try to reduce. Sit down, talk with your family, set limits. So that our kids are not eating excessive amounts of these foods with various chemicals in them,” he said.