ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY

SPRING RESEARCH PROJECT

We have used several food dyes during lab investigations this semester. In each case, the
dyes we used were among those approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration
for use in food products. While our government allows manufacturers to use these dyes in our
food, they do require that they be included in the ingredients list on the product label.
Despite governmental approval, some organizations such as The Center for Science in
the Public Interest have called for the government to ban the use of such dyes in our food.
Efforts in Europe have been more successful than those here. European foods carry a warning
notice about the effects of dyes on children. Some manufacturers produce multiple versions of
the same product with artificial dyes for US sale and natural dyes for European sale.
Your task is to choose one of these dyes, research the claims against it, and take a
position for or against banning your dye in American food products. The dyes and the major
claims against them are on the reverse side. As you conduct your research, do not accept at face
value the claims put forth in media reports or by various special interest groups. Go back to the
original scientific study (the primary source). Look for flaws in the research methodology such
as:
-

Who funded the study? Did they have a vested interest in the outcome?
How large was the sample size?
Was the specific dye isolated during the study?
Was the research conclusion based on actual scientific data, or merely anecdotal
reports by participants?
As a result of the study can you draw a direct causal link between the dye and the
purported adverse effect?

As a result of your research, prepare a persuasive paper designed to convince me of your

position. Use the same skills youve learned and applied in your English classes. For example:
-

Use MLA format

Print and annotate your primary sources. Attach them to your paper.
Employ parenthetical (in-text) citations.
Include a Works Cited page.
Use appropriate rhetorical appeals and devices.

Your paper will be due on the last day of regular classes (June 10). Turn your paper in to
Mr. Christie. Late submissions (during exam week) will be penalized 10% per school day.

DYE

FD&C Blue No. 1

CLAIMS AGAINST

Can cause allergic reactions in some people

Can increase hyperactivity in children

FD&C Blue No. 2

Can increase hyperactivity in children

In high doses can cause brain cancer in
male rats

FD&C Green No. 3

Can increase hyperactivity in children

Increases risk of bladder cancer

FD&C Red No. 40

Contains low levels of chemical

carcinogens as a result of the manufacturing
process
Can cause allergic reactions in some people
Can increase hyperactivity in children

FD&C Red No. 3

Can cause thyroid tumors

Can cause DNA damage
Is a carcinogen banned in cosmetics and
externally applied drugs
Can increase hyperactivity in children

FD&C Yellow No. 5

Contains low levels of chemical

carcinogens as a result of the manufacturing
process
Can cause allergic reactions in some people
Can increase hyperactivity in children
Can worsen asthma symptoms

FD&C Yellow No. 6

Contains low levels of chemical

carcinogens as a result of the manufacturing
process
Can cause allergic reactions in some people
Can increase hyperactivity in children