
The FDA has announced a ban on Red No. 3, a synthetic food dye linked to cancer in animal studies, sparking a major shift in the food industry.
At a Glance
- FDA bans Red No. 3 in food products effective January 15, 2027, and in ingested drugs by January 18, 2028
- The dye is found in various products including candy, cereals, and ice cream
- Decision follows growing concerns about potential health effects, including behavioral issues in children
- California and 10 other states have already moved to ban the dye
FDA Takes Action Against Controversial Food Coloring
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a significant decision to ban Red No. 3, a synthetic dye widely used in food products. The ban, which will take effect on January 15, 2027, for food items and January 18, 2028, for ingested drugs, marks a pivotal moment in food safety regulation. This action comes after years of debate and growing concerns about the potential health risks associated with the dye.
Red No. 3, also known as erythrosine, has been a staple in the food industry since its approval for use in 1907. It’s prized for its ability to create vibrant red hues in a variety of products, including gummies, ice cream cones, frostings, toaster pastries, candy, cereals, and strawberry-flavored milkshakes. However, its widespread use has been increasingly scrutinized due to potential health concerns.
FDA bans red dye No. 3 from foods https://t.co/1vEQvrPjdD pic.twitter.com/3fh1Z9z8Xs
— Eyewitness News (@ABC7NY) January 15, 2025
Health Concerns and Scientific Evidence
The FDA’s decision stems from studies linking high levels of Red No. 3 to cancer in male rats. While the agency noted that human exposure is typically much lower than the levels used in these studies, the potential risk has been deemed significant enough to warrant action. The FDA is bound by law to prohibit additives found to cause cancer in humans or animals, regardless of the dosage.
“The FDA cannot authorize a food additive or color additive if it has been found to cause cancer in humans or animals,” said Jim Jones, FDA’s deputy commissioner for human foods.
Beyond cancer concerns, there have been reports of behavioral changes in children after consuming products containing Red No. 3. Some parents have observed increased agitation and hyperactivity in their children, leading them to actively avoid products with this dye. While studies have shown an association between the dye and behavioral issues, it’s important to note that a direct causal relationship has not been established.
Industry Impact and Consumer Response
The ban on Red No. 3 will have significant implications for the food industry. Manufacturers will need to reformulate many popular products to comply with the new regulations. Some companies have already begun this process, anticipating the change and responding to consumer demands for more natural ingredients.
“Our consumers and everyone in the food industry want and expect a strong FDA, and a consistent, science-based national regulatory framework,” stated a spokesperson for the National Confectioners Association, indicating industry support for the FDA’s decision.
For consumers, particularly parents who have been wary of artificial food dyes, this ban represents a victory. Many have already been avoiding products containing Red No. 3, and this decision validates their concerns. The move aligns the United States with other countries and regions, such as the European Union, Australia, and Japan, where the dye is already banned or heavily restricted.
As the food industry adapts to this change, consumers can expect to see reformulated versions of their favorite products in the coming years. The transition may lead to increased use of natural food colorings, such as beet extract, which some experts recommend as a safer alternative. This shift not only addresses health concerns but also responds to the growing consumer demand for more natural and transparent food ingredients.