UAE: Food dyes may cause anxiety, hyperactivity, mood swings among kids, warn doctors

Doctors in the UAE are can cause hyperactivity, mood swings and irritability in some children and teenagers.

The concern has once again gained attention following the by the US Department of Health and Human Services and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about new plans to phase out all petroleum-based synthetic dyes from food supply.

Research indicates that food dyes can contribute to hyperactivity and mood issues among young people. If consumed regularly, dyed foods could also make children feel more anxious and high-strung.

Dr Fatma Mohamed Mahmoud Ibrahim, specialist pediatrics, Burjeel Medical Centre, Al Shamkha, said, “Studies like the Southampton study and reviews by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) found that some food dyes, especially when combined with preservatives, may worsen these behaviors. Recently, the FDA has started to review these findings more seriously.

"In the UAE, we are seeing similar patterns as children’s diets have more processed foods and snacks containing these dyes. A study by UAE University has also raised concerns about this, although, we still need more research to understand the full long-term impact on our local population.”

Dr Fatma Mohamed Mahmoud Ibrahim

Synthetic dyes common in children’s products

Medics explained synthetic food dyes are very common in the UAE, especially in products aimed at kids, “like candies, colorful cereals, juices, and bakery items. Many products still use dyes like Tartrazine (E102), Sunset Yellow (E110), and Allura Red (E129),” added Ibrahim.

Notably, in a social media post earlier this year, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment UAE (MOCCEUAE) emphasised ongoing updates to technical standards to protect consumer health. They stated that UAE regulations limits for colourant additives based on risk assessments and global standards.

Imported foods also undergo strict inspections and testing with local authorities to ensure safety.

Worsening food consumption patterns

Dr Mamata Bothra, specialist pediatrics and neonatologist, International Modern Hospital Dubai, said, “Food dyes can definitely worsen signs of hyperactivity and also make some children more agitated.”

Dr Mamata Bothra

Healthcare experts highlighted studies have shown associations between exposure to synthetic food dyes and the exacerbation of symptoms of

“I have seen a rise in these cases in recent years and exposure to food dyes in the early years is also seen to be causing a rise in these symptoms. Children consuming percentage of food with artificial dyes is three to four times more than seen in late 90s and early years of 2000. These effects can have long time implication in terms of behaviour. Lots of mood swings, agitations, increase in anxiety, decreased focus and are seen in children consuming high percentage of these food stuff.

"Overall, everywhere the use of synthetic dyes has increased. The availability of packed foods, consumption of aerated coloured drinks, fast foods, candies etc are all on a rise,” added Bothra.

Dr Fatma Mohamed Mahmoud Ibrahim, specialist pediatrics, Burjeel Medical Centre, Al Shamkha, said, “While specific UAE-wide data on this topic is still emerging, the high availability of processed foods in our markets makes this concern highly relevant.”

However, doctors pointed out most of the time, the effects are short-term. Symptoms like restlessness, mood swings, and poor concentration often happen within a few hours after eating foods with dyes. However, if children keep eating these foods regularly, it could add up over time and affect their long-term behaviour and learning issues.

“Parents play a crucial role…they should carefully check food labels, opt for natural colour alternatives, and reduce the overall consumption of highly processed foods. Creating a healthier, dye-free diet can significantly improve a child’s behaviour, learning ability, and overall wellbeing,” added Ibrahim.