FDA allows colour in tea but urges caution with additives
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed that adding colour to tea is permissible, advising consumers to check for FDA approval on labels. They recommend against consuming multiple cups daily and suggest choosing teas with a natural appearance.
Yesterday, February 10, Doctor Surachoke Tangwiwat, Secretary General of the FDA, addressed concerns about the use of Yellow No. 6 or Sunset Yellow in teas, which had been circulating online.
The FDA clarified that various tea types exist, such as leaf tea, instant tea, and pre-mixed tea, with the latter often containing added colours and flavours.
Doctor Surachoke stated that under the law, Yellow No. 6 or Sunset Yellow can be added to tea at a maximum of 100 milligrammes per kilogramme in a ready-to-drink state.
This limit aligns with international standards, and the World Health Organisation (WHO) considers the colour safe within these boundaries. However, it is essential to control usage and consumption to prevent exceeding recommended limits.
Regarding potential links between synthetic food colours and attention deficit disorders in children, Dr Surachoke noted that current research lacks sufficient evidence to support such claims.
When purchasing packaged tea, consumers should opt for products with FDA approval, as indicated by the FDA number, the manufacturer’s or importer’s name and address, and the tea’s ingredient list on the label.
For those preferring teas with natural colour and flavour, selecting products with tea leaves or tea powder as the main ingredient is advisable, as these will not list colours or sugar on the label.
However, for pre-mixed teas with added colours and flavours, such as sugar, the label will display terms like synthetic or natural colours, including INS numbers or specific names like Sunset Yellow.
Dr Surachoke advised that consumers should ensure the tea’s natural appearance when brewed, avoiding overly bright or intense colours. Similarly, when purchasing tea beverages from shops or cafes, choosing lighter-coloured options is recommended.
It is also suggested not to consume multiple cups a day and to vary beverage choices to reduce the risk of repeated exposure to the same food colouring, ensuring better health safety, reported KhaoSod.
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