When it comes time to dye Easter eggs, go green. Create brightly colored eggs by using natural ingredients from your fridge and pantry. Stay away from those egg-dyeing kits sold in craft stores and supermarkets—they contain coal tar and other petroleum-based products. Plus, studies have linked certain food dyes to health problems like allergies, chromosome damage, and cancer.
YELLOW DYE: Mix 2 tsp. of ground turmeric powder with 2/3 cup of boiling water and 1 tsp. white vinegar. Let the mixture cool before coloring your Easter eggs.
PURPLE DYE: A cup of frozen grape juice from concentrate and a tsp. of vinegar creates a beautiful purple hue. Let the mixture sit overnight before dyeing.
RED DYE: Use 4 Tbsp. of freshly grated beets, 2/3 cup boiling water and 1 tsp. white vinegar for a vibrant red color. Mix the ingredients together and begin dunking eggs immediately.
Quick tip: Make your egg-decorating party even more eco-friendly by using organic, free-range eggs and composting leftover materials when you’re done.
Adapted from The Green Year: 365 Small Things You Can Do To Make a Big Difference by Jodi Helmer (Alpha Books, 2008)
Health By Nature...Where Clean Meets Green! 