Also Known As:
synthetic dyes, artificial colors
Coal tar dyes are synthetic dyes, once derived from coal tar which are currently derived from petroleum sources. Coal tar dyes are used in foods, cosmetics and personal care products, such as hair dyes, shampoos and deodorants, over-the-counter and prescription drugs, and textiles.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has been regulating color additives used in food, drugs and cosmetics since the early 1900s. Synthetic dyes must be certified to confirm that each batch meets established specifications. These colors are labeled as FD&C, D&C or external D&C, with F standing for food use, D for drug use, and C for cosmetic use. For example, FD&C Blue No. 1 is a synthetic blue color that can be used in foods, drugs and cosmetics.
With the exception of hair dyes containing coal tar dyes, the FDA may remove any food, cosmetic or drug from the market if it can be shown that its use causes harm. Hair dye manufacturers must label any product containing coal tar hair dyes with a warning that the product may cause skin reactions in certain allergic individuals.
Nine synthetic dyes are approved for use in food; 35 for use in cosmetics; and 35 for use in drugs.