Hyperactivity in children is still being aggravated by mixtures of artificial colours and sodium benzoate found in many snacks and childrens foods. The colours of sunset yellow (E110), tartrazine (E102), carmoisine (E122), ponceau 4R (E124) quinoline yellow (E104), and allura red (E129) were picked out as problematic in the 'Southampton Study' funded by the Food Standards Agency in the UK.

"The FSA Board expresses its astonishment that industry has not moved more quickly to remove these artificial colours from their products, in the light of serious concerns raised by consumers" a spokesperson said. Whilst the colours are strictly legal right now for use in Europe they may not be for much longer, the European Food Safety Authority will give priority to the Southampton Study, published in early September this year, as it reviews all colourings that may be banned.

Research leader and Professor of Psychology, Jim Stevenson "We now have clear evidence that mixtures of certain food colours and benzoate preservative can adversely influence the behaviour of children"  The research found increased hyperactivity in children after consuming a cocktail of artificial food colours and sodium benzoate, a preservative found in many soft drinks and ices. Children were less able to concentrate and would rush around more than when on an additive-free diet.

Richard Watts, of the Children's Food Campaign, said: "Parents have said for some time that this is what is happening to their children, but it is disappointing that it has taken so long for an official body to recognise that"