Show Notes
Food colorings have become one of the most talked about issues in food policy today. But how much of the concern is grounded in science, and how much is driven by headlines?
In this episode, I sit down with chemist and regulatory expert Dave Schoneker, President of Black Diamond Regulatory Consulting and former President of the International Association of Color Manufacturers. With nearly five decades of experience in food additives and regulatory affairs, Dave brings deep technical insight to a highly charged topic.
We unpack common claims about synthetic dyes, including whether certain colors are banned in Europe, what the Southampton study actually showed, and why warning labels differ across regions. We’ll also clarify the science behind Red 3 and the Delaney Clause, explain the difference between synthetic and so-called natural colors, and explore the unintended consequences of rapid reformulation.
The conversation goes beyond safety to examine supply chain realities, sustainability implications, labeling transparency, state level legal battles, and the role of consumer choice.
If you are trying to separate fact from fear and understand what the science actually says about food colorings, this episode is for you.
The Smarter Food Safety Podcast is sponsored by Ecolab, a trusted partner throughout my career. They’re dedicated to protecting what’s vital, by advancing food safety, ensuring clean and safe environments, and enhancing water quality around the world.
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