According to a new study from McMaster University, a common red food
The authors of the new study examined fooddyes known as azo dyes. These are azo compounds, characterized by the obligatory presence of one or more azo groups -N=N- in the composition. Although most azo dyes are considered safe and non-toxic, several previous studies have shown that some exhibit pro-inflammatory properties in animals. Therefore, experts have studied the potential of azo dyes to promote the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) isa group of pathologies characterized by chronic, long-term inflammation with corresponding symptoms. Currently, it includes two diseases: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (UC).
The main hypothesis of the researchers is azo dyespromote the secretion of serotonin in the intestines. This hormone exacerbates the development of intestinal inflammation. After screening, the scientists selected four popular azo dyes that are used as food colorings: Allura Red AC (also known as FD&C Red 40 or E129), Brilliant Blue FCF, Sunset Yellow FCF and Tartrazine Yellow. Of these, Allura Red has the most pronounced effect on serotonin secretion, which prompted researchers to focus on it in further animal tests.
In the experiment, mice received either a regular diet oror a diet supplemented with Allura Red (AR) for 12 weeks. After this period, mice chronically exposed to AR developed mild colitis. At the same time, the level of serotonin in the intestines increased. However, periodic exposure to AR did not lead to the development of colitis in mice. Only constant daily consumption of the dye for several weeks caused intestinal inflammation.
The experiment also showed that the food additivecauses inflammation only in subjects with a predisposition to this condition. It may be caused by genetic factors or a certain lifestyle.
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