FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3, Synthetic Dye Linked to Cancer
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Wednesday that it is banning the use of Red No. 3, a synthetic dye commonly used in foods and drinks to give them a bright red color, like in candies, cereals, fruit cocktails, and strawberry milkshakes. The dye has been linked to cancer in animals, prompting the ban. This decision is a major victory for consumer advocacy groups and some lawmakers who have long pushed for the removal of Red No. 3, citing concerns over its potential cancer-causing properties and its effect on children’s behavior.
Widespread Use of Red No. 3 in Foods
Despite its risks, Red No. 3 is still used in thousands of food products. According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), more than 9,200 food items contain this dye. It is present in products made by large food companies, and the CSPI has been pushing the FDA to revoke its approval for years. However, the FDA’s decision does not extend to other artificial dyes like Red No. 40, which has been linked to behavioral problems in children.
What is Red Dye No. 3?
Red Dye No. 3, first approved in 1907, is a petroleum-based dye. The FDA began to consider its potential risks after a study in the 1980s found that it could cause tumors in male rats when given in high doses. Despite this, the dye remained in use for decades.
Advocates Celebrate the Decision
Consumer advocacy groups and health organizations are celebrating the FDA’s decision, saying it is long overdue. Melanie Benesh from the Environmental Working Group described the ban as “a big win for consumers.” She also expressed hope that the FDA would examine other artificial dyes used in food products. Some lawmakers, like California’s Assembly member Jesse Gabriel, are also pleased with the FDA’s decision, seeing it as a result of their efforts to pressure Washington to take action.
A Growing Trend Across the U.S. and Beyond
In addition to the FDA’s nationwide ban, several U.S. states, including California, have already banned Red No. 3. Other countries, including Australia, Japan, and members of the European Union, have also banned or restricted its use. Many food manufacturers have already removed this dye from their products.
Food Safety Organizations Respond
The Consumer Brands Association, representing the food industry, stated that food safety is a top priority for its members and that they will comply with the FDA’s decision. The group emphasized the importance of a consistent, science-based national regulatory framework.
FDA’s Role in Food Safety
The FDA is responsible for approving all color additives used in food. There are 36 FDA-approved color additives, with 9 being synthetic dyes. The FDA had been reviewing Red No. 3 after receiving a petition from CSPI and other organizations urging it to revoke the dye’s approval due to its potential cancer risks. While the FDA previously found no direct link between artificial food dyes and children’s hyperactivity, the agency has now decided to take action on Red No. 3.
Looking Ahead
With the FDA’s decision, there is a growing movement to reassess other synthetic dyes used in food, and lawmakers are eager to continue pushing for further changes. As Gabriel put it, this decision is “just the beginning of a lot more to come.”
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Foods That Contain Red Dye No. 3
Although some food manufacturers have stopped using Red Dye No. 3 and other artificial dyes, thousands of food products still contain it, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI). A search of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Branded Foods Database at FoodData Central revealed that 9,201 food items in the U.S. contain Red Dye No. 3, including many products from the country’s biggest food companies.
Here are some common food items that may contain Red Dye No. 3, as noted by experts from the FDA, CSPI, and dietitian Amanda Beaver from Houston Methodist Hospital:
- Candy, especially seasonal candies like candy corn and dyed marshmallows
- Cakes and cupcakes
- Frozen desserts such as ice pops and strawberry-flavored ice creams
- Frostings
- Maraschino cherries
- Fruit cocktails
- Colored beverages
- Protein shakes
- Vegetarian meats
- Bacon bits
- Sausages
- Strawberry milk
- Puddings
However, not every product in these categories will contain Red Dye No. 3. It’s important to always read food labels before making a purchase.
If Red Dye No. 3 is present in a food item, it will be listed on the label as:
- FD&C Red No. 3
- FD&C Red 3
- Red 3
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