Are Children More Sensitive to Food Additives?
Yes, in some cases. Children's bodies differ from adults in several relevant ways: they consume more food relative to body weight, their metabolic enzymes develop gradually, and their blood-brain barrier is more permeable. This means that for certain additives, children may be exposed to higher relative doses and may be more affected by neurological impacts.
The Southampton Six: The Best Evidence We Have
The most significant evidence for additive effects on children comes from the 2007 McCann et al. study in The Lancet — one of the most rigorous food additive studies ever conducted. Researchers gave children either a drink containing six artificial dyes plus sodium benzoate, or a placebo, in a double-blind design.
The result: children who consumed the additive mix showed significantly increased hyperactive behavior. The effect was seen in both 3-year-olds and 8-9-year-olds across the general population — not just children with ADHD.
The six dyes studied: Tartrazine (E102), Quinoline Yellow (E104), Sunset Yellow (E110), Carmoisine (E122), Ponceau 4R (E124), and Allura Red (E129). The EU responded by requiring a warning label: 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.'
Practical Guidance for Parents
Based on current evidence:
• Limit or avoid foods containing the Southampton Six dyes, particularly for children who show behavioral sensitivity or have ADHD
• Read labels for these E-numbers: E102, E104, E110, E122, E124, E129
• Be aware that soft drinks, candy, brightly colored snacks, and some medications commonly contain these dyes
• 'No artificial colors' products are a straightforward alternative
• Natural food colorings (beta-carotene, annatto, beet extract) are generally safer alternatives
• Note: sodium benzoate (E211) was also in the Southampton study mixture and may have contributed to effects
Other Additives to Watch For Children
Beyond artificial dyes:
• Caffeine — not technically an additive but found in some children's drinks
• High sugar and sodium content — not additives, but important
• Sulfites (E220-E228) — can trigger asthma attacks; label checking important for asthmatic children
• Monosodium glutamate (E621) — safety evidence is actually good; childhood hyperactivity link not supported by controlled studies