Popular red food dye could trigger inflammatory bowel disease

A McMaster University researcher has found a link between a popular food dye and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs).

The study shows that Allura Red is a common ingredient in candy, chips, pop, dairy products and some cereals, often used to attract children.

Allura Red is used to add colour and texture to food.

Senior author Waliul Khan looked at its effects on gut health. After studies in mice, findings show long term consumption of the food dye can be a potential trigger of Crohn’s Disease, Colitis and other IBDs.

Research shows that red food dye also affects certain allergies, immune disorders and behavioural problems in children, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

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Khan says that IBDs are serious chronic inflammatory conditions of the human bowel that affect millions of people worldwide.

The exact causes are still not fully understood, but studies have shown that dysregulated immune responses, genetic factors, gut microbiota imbalances, and environmental factors can trigger these conditions.

The research indicates a significant progress in identifying susceptibility genes and understanding the role of the immune system and host microbiota.

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On the other hand, Khan says research has lagged when it comes to investigating environmental risk factors.

Environmental triggers include typical Western diets, which includes processed fats, red and processed meats, sugar and a lack of fibre, says Khan.

Khan added that such a diet also includes large amounts of dyes and additives.