I have a passion for the health and safety of our industry. As publishers of a magazine dedicated to the roofing and construction industries, sometimes issues arise that deserve attention because of their profound ripple effects on the workforce we rely on.

Recently, consumer advocate Vani Hari, also known as the “Food Babe,” led a protest against Kellogg’s, calling for the removal of harmful artificial food dyes from their products. These dyes—banned in many countries but still prevalent in the United States—have been linked to behavioral issues, attention deficits, and other health problems in children. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency recently banned Red 3, a dye known to cause cancer, marking a significant step forward. However, there are still many artificial dyes with similar health risks that remain in our food.

In January, the FDA issued a ban on Red 3m giving companies up to three years to reformulate their products. According to its website, Kellogg's and Kellanova do not currently use Red 3 but do use Red 40 in some products.

Think about it: the kids consuming these bright-colored cereals and snacks today will be tomorrow’s apprentices, foremen, and industry leaders. The foundation of their health, attention spans, and decision-making abilities is being compromised by something as simple and preventable as what’s in their lunchboxes. Studies have repeatedly shown the negative effects of artificial dyes on cognitive and behavioral health, leading to struggles in academic performance, emotional regulation, and social interactions. These challenges—if unaddressed—may follow them into adulthood, impacting their readiness and ability to thrive in demanding, detail-oriented fields like ours.

Examples We Set for Those in Our Lives

Moreover, this issue doesn’t just affect the next generation. Many of us in the wall and ceiling industry are parents or grandparents, and we need to consider the broader impact of our choices—at home and at work—on long-term health outcomes. What’s more, the availability of healthier options at a reasonable price point could be a critical factor in ensuring that all members of our workforce, present and future, have the mental clarity, energy and physical resilience required for success.

Morgan & Morgan recently filed a lawsuit against 11 food companies for using harmful dyes and chemicals in their products, further highlighting the need for accountability in the food industry. This legal action underscores the importance of advocating for safer ingredients to protect consumers and the future health of our workforce.

So, let’s take this moment to think beyond our toolbelts and jobsites. Let’s consider what we can do to support better health, starting with the food we allow into our homes and advocate for in our communities. The healthier we help our future workforce become, the stronger and more capable our industry will be.

Together, we can raise awareness and demand better for our families and our workforce. After all, a strong wall and ceiling system over our heads starts with strong people beneath it.

For more information, visit https://www.forthepeople.com/blog/who-are-we-suing-ultra-processed-foods-upf-lawsuit/