The consumption of artificial food dyes is a topic of controversy in the United States. In contrast, many European nations opted for natural alternatives after studies suggested that they cause hypersensitivity in children. Two of the most prevalent food dyes, Red 40 and Yellow 5, are heavily debated as carcinogens and are solidly linked to ADHD in children. The purpose of this study is to use the model organism, Xenopus laveis, the African clawed frog, to observe the effects of these dyes separately and together. Specimens will be incubated in different concentrations of Red 40, Yellow 5, or both at either 2.5μg/ml or 5μg/ml. There will be one control group and eight experimental groups. These groups will be exposed to the dyes from metamorphosis stage 48 (Nieuwkoop and Faber) until adulthood. They were observed by determining how long movement lasted once it began. The results suggest a strong link to hyperactivity and possible effects on development, such as different mortalities among the groups. Tadpole length was in terms of length, and any malformations were documented. A review was also conducted on dyes present in common products available to consumers, which will be discussed.

Last modified

• 10/23/2019

Creator

• Fils, Brittanie

Contributors

• Dr. Laura Twersky, Thesis Advisor

Publisher

• Saint Peter's University

Date created

• May 2019

Resource type

• Research Paper

Rights statement

• In Copyright