Several consumer groups charge that the FDA has permitted the testing to continue for too long and is reluctant to remove certain artificial colors from the market even if evidence of their danger exists. The following is a list of artificial colorings, still on the market, which may be unsafe.

Blue No.2. Industry studies have shown an increase in brain tumors among rats fed this additive, which is used in baked goods, cereals, snack foods, ice cream, confections, cherries, pet foods, and beverage powders.

Citrus Red No. 2. This is restricted to coloring the skins of oranges sold in produce departments, and has induced cancer in animals.

Red No. 40. Any artificially colored red, orange, brown, or purple food is likely to contain Red 40. Specific uses are gelatins, puddings, dairy products, confections, beverages and condiments. Research reveals that Red 40 may cause tumors in the lymph glands.

Red No. 3. Some evidence exists that this additive may be harmful, but clear evidence is lacking. It has shown adverse effects on blood and may also cause mutation of the genes. Its use in now banned in cosmetics. It is used in cherries in fruit cocktail and in canned fruits for salads, confections, baked goods, dairy products and snack foods.

Yellow No. 5. This additive has been found to cause allergic reactions. As of July 1, 1982, manufacturers are required to list this additive on labels of foods that contain it. It is used mainly in candy, desserts, cereals, and dairy products. Foods that contain Yellow No. 5 are custards, beverages, ice cream, confections, preserves and cereals.

Blue No. 1, Green No. 3, and Yellow No. 6. No evidence of hazard has been found in these last three additives. However, they may cause an allergic reaction, and products containing them may be required to be labeled in the future.