I don’t even know why we color Easter eggs since we don’t teach our kids there is an Easter bunny. I still don’t even know what eggs have to do with a bunny. I do however have fond memories of coloring eggs in my childhood and my kids have grown to love the tradition as well. I wanted to find a way how to color your Easter eggs naturally.

Egg shells are permeable

Ever notice how the egg inside turns the color of the dye? Well, eggs are permeable, and I do not want my family to be eating those artificial dyes for several reasons.  Food dyes have been linked to allergies, hyperactivity, and autoimmune diseases. I also find it disturbing that other countries like the European Union have either banned food dyes or require warning labels on foods that contain them. Why are we still using them in the US?

The natural way

Natural dyes are easier to find these days at health food stores, but did you know your kitchen is full of natural dyes? Here are some natural ways to color your eggs without harming your health. The longer you submerge the eggs in the dye, the deeper the color. Have fun!

Red

Bring 2 cups of water, 1 cup of chopped beets, and 2 tbsp white vinegar to a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Strain and cool the liquid.

Blue

Bring 2 cups of water, 1 cup of chopped red cabbage, and 2 tbsp white vinegar to a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Strain and cool the liquid.

green

Bring 1 cup of water, 1 cup of chopped spinach or 2 tbsp. spirulina, and 2 tbsp white vinegar to a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and cool the liquid.

Yellow/Orange

Bring 1 cup of water, 2 tbsp. turmeric, and 2 tbsp white vinegar to a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and cool the liquid.

 

 

Sources
1.David W. Freeman. “Food Dyes Linked to Allergies, ADHD and Cancer: Group Calls on U.S. to Outlaw Their Use.” CBS News June 29, 2010. http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-20009228-10391704.html.