Artificial Dyes and ADHD
The belief that food dyes cause hyperactivity started with Dr. Benjamin Feingold’s 1975 book, based on anecdotes rather than controlled studies. A 1982 pediatric study showed minimal effects in a tiny fraction of children. Kraft’s 2015 removal of dyes from mac-and-cheese reinforced public fears. Comprehensive analysis in 2013 found no consistent link between common food dyes and ADHD. The 9.4% ADHD rate in American children stems primarily from genetic and environmental factors.