Dr Brett Says: Don't assume that because it is on our shelves that it is safe for you or your kids. Look closely at the contents and beware of these chemicals, especially if your kids have troubles with concentration.

From Adelaide Now

MORE than 1000 products containing food colourings facing bans and child health warnings overseas are freely sold inAustralia.

 The Food Intolerance Network's national sweep has so far detected 1154 products listing at least one of six controversial bright red or yellow added colours on labels. The list includes cakes, crackers, cordial, flavoured milk, confectionery, medicines and icecream.

 The artificial colours - tartrazine (102), quinoline yellow (104), sunset yellow (110), carmoisine (122), ponceau 4R (124) and allura red (129) - raised alarm after a medical study linked them to more boisterous behaviour and a loss of concentration in some children.

 Food Standards Australia New Zealand insists there is no need for a ban here because the colours are not consumed in high levels or found in everyday foods.

The colours are subject to a voluntary phaseout in the UK and will carry the alert "`may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children" in the European Union.

Food Intolerance Network founder Sue Dengate accused local authorities of turning a blind eye to growing community concern and increasing evidence of potentially harmful effects.

 Choice senior food policy officer Clare Hughes also called for a ban, saying Australian parents deserved peace of mind.

 "There is no essential need for these colours in foods. They are only added to make products look good and there are natural colour alternatives," she said.

 Ms Hughes said although the artificial colours had to be labelled in ingredient lists by law, parents had little time to check the fine print.

 Food Standards Australia New Zealand spokeswoman Lydia Buchtmann said the UK research showed only weak evidence of a link between colours and behaviour changes. She said parents should ensure children eat a balanced diet that limits less healthy foods and drinks.

HEALTHY TIPS

 Avoid foods that are artificially bright in colour.

 Avoid products with additives listed in the 600 range of numbers.

 Choose the plainer option when it comes to things such as packets of potato chips.

 Try to find preservative-free alternatives.

 Source: Additive Education