Food coloring is a substance that is added to food or drinks to change their color. It can be made from natural sources such as plants, fruits, vegetables and even insects (e.g., cochineal). Artificial colors are also used which are derived from chemical synthesis using petroleum-based raw materials. Food coloring is commonly used in processed foods to enhance their appearance or to replace the natural color that may have been lost during processing, cooking or storage. It can be used for a variety of purposes such as adding color to cakes and candies, enhancing the color of fruits and vegetables, and preventing discoloration in certain foods like juices or salad dressings.