Bans on Artificial Food Dyes are Unjust

Artificial food dyes have been a topic of discussion as of late, with the FDA recently banning Red No. 3 due to safety concerns. Now, several states are considering banning additional artificial food dyes, citing health risks, lack of nutritional value, and the sole purpose of enhancing the visual appeal of food and drinks. While these concerns may be valid, there are compelling reasons why banning artificial food dyes may not be the best course of action.

One argument against banning artificial food dyes is the right of individuals to make decisions about their own health. Just as people have the freedom to engage in risky activities for financial gain, they should also have the right to consume products with artificial dyes if they prioritize cost savings over safety. The National Confectioners Association warns that banning these dyes could increase the cost of food and make it less accessible to some individuals. However, if prices remain unchanged, people should still have the freedom to choose whether or not to consume products with artificial dyes.

Even if the use of artificial dyes is solely for aesthetic purposes, individuals should still have the right to take risks for purely visual reasons. Just as someone may choose a less safe car color or pain reliever because they prefer it, individuals should be able to make choices about the products they consume based on personal preferences. The right to make decisions about one’s health is rooted in bodily autonomy, with the principle of “your body, your choice” serving as a guiding factor.

It is also worth considering that the state does not ban substances that are far more harmful than artificial food dyes, such as cigarettes. If more dangerous products are not prohibited, it may seem inconsistent to ban artificial food dyes. Just as individuals have the right to make choices about risky behaviors like smoking, they should also have the freedom to decide whether or not to consume products with artificial dyes.

In conclusion, while concerns about the safety and nutritional value of artificial food dyes are valid, banning these substances may infringe on individuals’ rights to make decisions about their own health. Whether motivated by cost savings or personal preferences, people should have the freedom to choose what they consume. As Professor Christopher Freiman suggests, if we are unwilling to ban products that are more harmful than artificial food dyes, it may not be justifiable to restrict access to these substances.