Food additives and children's behaviour

Friday 4 April 2008

Research undertaken by Southampton University suggests that eating or drinking some artificial food colours could be linked to a negative effect on children’s behaviour. In light of these findings, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has revised its advice to consumers.

In short, the advice states: if a child shows signs of hyperactivity or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), eliminating the colours considered in the Southampton study from their diet might have some beneficial on their behaviour. Qualitative research was commissioned to gauge parents’ response to the revised advice. More specifically, research was intended:

• to examine parents’ understanding of food additives, including:
  • the effects these can have on behaviour
  • their awareness of Southampton University’s study
  • their grasp of the implications of this work

• to explore parents’ understanding of the FSA’s updated advice, including:
  • perceptions on the target audience
  • thoughts on relevance/importance of the advice
  • views on the practical implications of the advice

• their preferences for how the advice should be communicated

Find out more about the qualitative research below.