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Are food dyes dangerous? Do they cause hyperactivity in kids?

Last updated on April 10, 2026

The evidence on food dyes and hyperactivity is mixed and modest. A 2007 UK study (the McCann study) found that a mixture of artificial food colors plus sodium benzoate increased hyperactivity in both 3-year-olds and 8/9-year-olds — but the effect was small and the study used a mixture of dyes, making it hard to isolate which ones matter.

Evidence Summary

  • Data source: The McCann et al. (2007) RCT (n=153 children); meta-analyses of food dye and behavior studies; FDA and EFSA regulatory reviews

  • Key finding: McCann et al. found a statistically significant but small increase in hyperactivity from a dye mixture — effect size was modest even for children with ADHD

  • Key finding: Meta-analyses suggest a small but consistent association between artificial food colors and hyperactivity, stronger in children already diagnosed with ADHD

  • Key finding: FDA concluded evidence is insufficient to require warning labels; EU took a more precautionary approach and mandated them

  • Caveat: Red No. 3 was banned by the FDA in 2025 due to cancer risk in animal studies — this is a separate issue from hyperactivity, and Red No. 40 (the most common dye) remains approved

Confidence: Moderate confidence — some RCT and meta-analytic evidence exists; effects are small and most relevant for children with existing ADHD sensitivity.

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