Dye- and Color Additive-Free Products (2746)

Did you know the European Union has restricted or banned more than 1,300 artificial additives while the U.S. has banned or restricted only 11? That means that reading labels is more important than ever before—especially if you’re hoping to avoid dyes and color additives in your food and personal care products. But what’s so bad about artificial ingredients? And why should you have them on your radar? Here’s a closer look at what the term “color additive” means, why you might want to steer clear of them, tips for doing so, and color additive–free brands to keep on-hand.

What Is Dye & Color Additive Free?

A color additive (sometimes called dye) can include both synthetic and natural color substances that are added to food or products to give them a certain hue. In other words, this isn’t color that’s naturally occuring in the food or product (or lost during production). It’s the stuff that’s instead added later in the manufacturing process, typically for cosmetic purposes.

Benefits of Shopping Dye & Color Additive Free

While the FDA regulates color additives to ensure they’re safe for consumption, some consumers wish to avoid them as they’re seen as unnatural and unnecessary added ingredients. Some consumers also say there’s a link between certain food dyes and hyperactivity in children, but the data behind this claim is inconclusive. If nothing else, by avoiding dye and color additives, you’re likely to get a more natural, pure product (which may also be subject to natural color change over time). It’s just one more way to eat a natural diet with fewer processed ingredients.

Tips for Shopping Dye & Color Additive Free

The most important tip for shopping dye and color additive free is to read labels carefully (or when shopping on Thrive Market, be sure to check the “Color & Additive Free” filter to shop brands that avoid these ingredients). Another tip is to opt for whole, organic foods, which you can be sure don’t include such additives—and prepare meals in your own kitchen.

Dye & Color Additive Free Brands

These clean brands keep things as close to nature as possible.

Dr. Bronner’s

Dr. Bronner’s crafts exceptional products from premium, organic ingredients that are ethically and responsibly source, and the company’s legacy dates all the way back to 1858.

Organic Peppermint Castile Liquid Soap

Free of dyes, additives, and harsh chemicals, these must-have, multitasking, “18-in-” soaps are good for all sorts of cleaning tasks—from mopping the floor to cleaning your body to washing clothes.

Wild Planet

This sustainably-caught seafood helps support the conservation of wild marine ecosystems while offering exceptional fish at the same time. From tuna and salmon to sardines and anchovies, these staples will add a boost of flavor to your next meal.

Non-GMO Wild Skipjack Tuna

Each filet of this exceptional tuna is sustainably caught and cooked only once to help retain nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids in every can—all without added colors, dyes, or preservatives.

Late July

The folks at Late July believe snacks should not only be great-tasting, but also good for you. All of the brand’s chips are made with simple, organic ingredients—with no artificial flavors or preservatives to be found.

Late July Jalapeno Lime Tortilla Chips

These crunchy, Certified Organic snacks spice things up with a little jalapeno and zesty lime over organic whole-ground corn. Plus, they’re gluten-free.

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