Synthetic food dyes are often added to breakfast cereals, candies, drinks, desserts, and much more to lend vibrant color, making these foods more visually appealing. Despite their widespread use, these chemical have an array of negative effects on health.
In particular, studies show that two commonly used synthetic blue food dyes, Blue No. 1 & Blue No. 2, can cause hypersensitivity reactions such as rash, hives, & stomach cramps, and can contribute to inflammatory disorders, like Crohn’s disease. Studies also show that consuming blue food dyes may have neurotoxic effects and could cause ADHD, hyperactivity, and other behavioral changes. Children are particularly susceptible to these detrimental properties.
Fortunately, natural food dyes can be substituted to make food colorful, without the harmful effects. Butterfly pea flowers give vibrant color to this cream cheese frosting. They are rich in anthocyanins, which give them a vibrant blue color. These compounds also have numerous health benefits and can help to boost brain function and memory.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 Tbsp butterfly pea flower powder
Makes enough to frost 12 cupcakes
Directions:
Add the ingredients to a bowl and mix well, until smooth. Use to frost your favorite cupcakes (wait until they’re completely cooled!). Our favorite pairings are chocolate, vanilla, and carrot cake cupcakes.
