Diagnosis of Food Colour Sensitivity
The diagnosis of food colour sensitivity can be challenging, as symptoms may be vague, delayed, or overlap with other food-related issues. Food colours are rarely the first suspect when someone presents with allergic-type reactions or behavioural changes, which makes clinical diagnosis reliant on careful observation, elimination, and sometimes formal allergy testing.
Clinical History
Doctors start by:
Reviewing the onset, duration, and type of symptoms
Asking about recent food intake, including packaged, coloured, or artificially flavoured items
Investigating links between symptoms and specific products (e.g., sweets, fizzy drinks, sauces)
Doctors may ask parents of children to track behaviour and dietary intake over a few weeks.
Elimination and Reintroduction
One of the most effective diagnostic tools is a supervised elimination diet
Doctors remove suspected food colours from the diet for 2–4 weeks
If symptoms improve, doctors reintroduce one colour at a time to check whether symptoms return
Requires patience and commitment, especially for families managing multiple sensitivities
This method is often used for identifying behavioural triggers in children, particularly in suspected cases of hyperactivity linked to additives.
Food Diaries
Keeping a detailed diary helps spot patterns:
List all foods and drinks consumed
Record portion sizes, ingredients, and product brands
Track timing and description of symptoms
A food diary is especially helpful in identifying subtle or delayed reactions.
Allergy Testing
Skin prick testing or IgE blood tests are less helpful for food colour sensitivities
These tests are designed to detect true food allergies, not additive reactions
However, they may be used to rule out allergies to natural colourants like cochineal (E120), which is derived from insects and can cause IgE-mediated allergies
Specialist Referral
If symptoms are persistent, confusing, or severe, referral to a clinical allergist, paediatrician, or dietitian is recommended
Multidisciplinary support ensures that dietary restrictions are safe and nutritionally balanced
Diagnosis of Food Colour Sensitivity
The diagnosis of food colour sensitivity is mainly based on tracking, exclusion, and patient history. There is no single test that confirms it, which makes awareness, documentation, and professional guidance vital.
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