A study by Southampton University last September found a direct linkbetween artificial food colourings, plus the preservative sodiumbenzoate, and behavioural problems.
But the European Food Safety Authority claimed that flaws in the way theresearch was carried out meant it was not possible to assess howwidespread sensitivity to the additives may be in the generalpopulation.
The EFSA said the study provided 'limited evidence that the mixtures ofadditives tested had a small effect on the activity and attention ofsome children.'
Richard Watts, campaign co-ordinator of the Children's Food Campaign,said, 'EFSA has let down consumers. No one now disputes that artificialadditives pose a threat to children's health and well-being. Our ownFood Standards Agency must now act to remove them from the food chain.'
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