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Artificial Food Colors and Children’s Health: A Policy Brief Based on a Targeted Review of Evidence in Iran
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Samaneh Samaneh Nabizadeh    , Reza Sharafati Chaleshtori * |
| Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran. , sharafati.reza@gmail.com |
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Abstract: (6 Views) |
Artificial food colors are widely used in many food products. However, the use of unauthorized colors, exceeding permitted limits, and insufficient information on dietary intake may pose challenges to public health. Children require specific exposure assessments because of their lower body weight and distinct dietary consumption patterns. This article aimed to examine evidence published in Iran regarding the use of artificial food colors in food products, dietary exposure, and potential implications for children's health, using a targeted review approach with a focus on policy considerations.
The reviewed studies reported the presence of artificial food colors in the food samples examined, and some also assessed dietary exposure and potential risks. However, limitations in the available data and differences in the food products and assessment methods restrict the ability to accurately estimate children's exposure at the national level. Considering existing regulations, food control laboratory capacity, monitoring costs, and the need for coordination among regulatory authorities, policy options include targeted monitoring of foods commonly consumed by children, assessment of daily intake across different age groups, improved labeling, and family education. The main policy recommendation is to implement a pilot risk-based monitoring program to identify non-compliance with regulations and generate data needed to estimate children's dietary exposure. A phased implementation of this program could help assess its feasibility, costs, and monitoring requirements while providing evidence to support future policy decisions and more efficient allocation of regulatory resources.
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| Keywords: Food Coloring Agents, Child, Food Safety, Risk Assessment, Health Policy, Iran |
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Type of Study: Policy Brief |
Subject:
General
Received: 2026/10/21 | Revised: 2026/11/1 | Accepted: 2026/11/1
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