As a result of new information available from scientific research1 and increased consumer concern, Sanitarium has initiated the removal of artificial red food colours (122 and 124) from the few products where it is used within our range.

Strawberry flavoured Up&Go and So Good Strawberry, which used artificial colour at levels below those used in recent studies, may become milk-like in colour while still maintaining its strawberry flavour. Work on product reformulation and new packaging to reflect the changes started in January 2008.

As a leader in health foods Sanitarium has adopted a policy to remove and cease using artificial colours. It may take time and new technologies to realise a complete solution for the use of artificial colours. However, we have our highly skilled food technicians researching and trialling natural sources to add food appeal colour to products when needed.

As a responsible health food manufacturer, Sanitarium ensures it keeps informed on food science and technologies and operates within the food regulations. Responding to consumer concerns to help them on their health journey is part of Sanitarium’s mission to inspire and resource our community to experience happy, healthy lives.

McCann D, Barrett A et al. Food additives and hyperactive behaviour in 3-year-old and 8/9-year-old children in the community: a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled
trial.The Lancet, 2007 Nov 3;370(9598):1560-7

Published by the Communications Department – May 2008