
Why are raspberry drinks blue?
Otherwise known as the ‘blue flavour’.
Asked by: Phil Rippon, Cardiff
In the 1950s, raspberry-flavoured foods were coloured dark red using a dye called amaranth. This later turned out to be carcinogenic and was banned in the US. Food manufacturers started using the bright blue dye instead, partly because it helps to distinguish it from cherry or strawberry flavours, but also because children seem to like brightly coloured foods.
Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.
Authors

Luis trained as a zoologist, but now works as a science and technology educator. In his spare time he builds 3D-printed robots, in the hope that he will be spared when the revolution inevitably comes.
Subscription offer
Subscribe and save 50% on the shop price. Pay just £16.50 every 6 issues by Direct Debit. Receive every issue delivered direct to your door with FREE UK delivery.