Food Regulations and ADHD From an Orlando Counselor

In this country, thousands of chemicals are permitted in food products, and while many are probably safe for consumption, a few have been associated with significant health issues related to pathogens. In 2023, the California Food Safety Act was enacted, prohibiting four harmful chemicals in food manufactured, sold, or distributed within the state to protect public health service. These banned substances include potassium bromate, propyl paraben, Red Dye No. 3, and brominated vegetable oil (BVO).

Additionally, the California School Food Safety Act, which disallowed food additives such as Red Dye No. 40, Yellow Dye No. 5, Yellow Dye No. 6, Blue Dye No. 1, Blue Dye No. 2, and Green Dye No. 3 in food provided to public school students, was also signed into law last year. Building on the success of these pivotal legislations, 51 bills have been introduced this year at the state level to address harmful food chemicals. These proposed laws aim to prohibit not only the aforementioned California chemicals but also titanium dioxide, BHA, azodicarbonamide, heavy metals, and BHT, all of which have documented health risks.

What are the main objectives of food regulations?

Food regulations aim to ensure food safety, protect consumer health, prevent fraud, and provide accurate information to consumers. These regulations, established by regulatory agencies, are codified in the model Food Code and the Code of Federal Regulations, establishing standards for food production, labeling, packaging, storage, and distribution to guarantee that the food supply is safe and of high quality.

Studies suggest that certain artificial food colorings and preservatives may exacerbate hyperactivity in children. These additives, commonly found in processed foods, have been linked to behavioral issues and attention problems in some children. Artificial food colorings like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1 have raised concerns due to their potential effects on behavior. Similarly, preservatives such as sodium benzoate and BHA/BHT are believed to have negative impacts on children’s hyperactivity levels.

Parents and caregivers are advised to read food labels carefully and opt for natural alternatives whenever possible to minimize the intake of these additives. Some studies recommend an elimination diet to identify and avoid triggering substances in a child’s diet. By being mindful of the ingredients in the foods children consume, caregivers can potentially help manage hyperactivity issues and promote overall well-being.

Lack of federal regulation forces states to step in

Since 2000, almost 99 percent of food chemicals, including dairy, and poultry products, and shellfish, have received approval from the food and chemical industry rather than the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) within the food industry, including poultry products, as outlined in the FDA Food Code. This regulatory environment has been heavily influenced by the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the FDA’s existing food safety regulation and quality assurance measures. When the FDA does evaluate the safety of chemicals, including medical devices, under the provisions of the cosmetic act, the process is often very slow and infrequently revisits past decisions related to food safety issues and regulation, even when new scientific evidence emerges, particularly in light of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Consequently, most chemicals present in our food supply, which affect millions of Americans, have gone without safety reviews for decades, according to GAO, if they have been reviewed at all.

Currently, the FDA’s latest list of chemicals “under review” features only five out of the 13 substances targeted by state legislation: potassium bromate, BVO, propyl paraben, Red Dye No. 3, and titanium dioxide. The agency’s strategy for conducting post-market evaluations remains vague and lacks the necessary statutory authority, and the entire process suffers from a lack of transparency. It may take years for the FDA to complete its review of these chemicals—if it ever does. Repeatedly, the FDA has not taken action to regulate potentially harmful food additives. In light of the lack of federal oversight, states have taken the initiative to safeguard their consumers.

harmful food chemicals.

Lowering exposure to harmful food chemicals

Total Life Counseling provides a valuable “alternatives to medication” online class designed to address the treatment and management of ADHD without relying on medications. Their expertise in working with children with Autism and ADHD dates back to 2004, where they have successfully helped enhance focus by eliminating certain foods from their diets. This holistic approach not only tackles the symptoms but also aims at improving overall well-being and quality of life for individuals dealing with these conditions. By offering practical strategies and support, Total Life Counseling empowers individuals and families to explore non-pharmacological interventions for ADHD management, fostering a comprehensive and personalized approach to mental health care.

If you aim to reduce your consumption of harmful food ingredients consider these steps:

Check EWG’s Food Scores database for products free from toxic food chemicals like those mentioned in these state bills.

For convenience, utilize our Healthy Living app to find suitable products while on the go.

Opt for packaged foods that are certified organic whenever you can, as these must adhere to rigorous standards that safeguard consumers from potential exposure to harmful additives.

Additionally, when feasible and within your budget, try to limit your consumption of ultra-processed foods, as many contain concerning ingredients.

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/30/west-virginia-food-dye-ban