RESEARCH conducted by scientists at Southampton University has led to two of the UK's biggest confectionery makers banning artificial colours from their sweets.

Cadbury confirmed today they will remove all artificial colouring from their foods by the end of the year, while rival Mars will remove the colourings from its Starburst sweets.

The research by Southampton University showed links between seven common E numbers and behavioural problems in children.

All artificial colours mentioned in the university's report will also be removed from Skittles by the end of this year.

Mars said in a statement: ''We will continue to review the use of additives in our brand portfolio. All additives are clearly listed on the packs.'' A Cadbury spokesman said: ''We are committed to replacing all artificial colours in our sweets. We note the Southampton University findings, but we had begun this process already because we are continually listening to our consumers.'' The Food Standards Agency changed its advice to parents last week after the study showed that normal children given a cocktail of additives behaved impulsively and lost concentration.

It says children showing signs of hyperactivity should cut certain additives from their diets.

But food safety campaigners urged the Government to go further and put legal limits on additives in food.