Artificial colors are synthetic dyes used to enhance the appearance of food, beverages, cosmetics, and other products. These colors are created in laboratories and can mimic the vibrant hues found in nature. They are often used to make products more visually appealing and to ensure consistency in color across batches. Many artificial colors are derived from petroleum or coal tar, while others are made from natural sources. Some common examples include Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1. Regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), evaluate these colors for safety before they can be used in consumer products.