TThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of red dye No. 3 in foods and drugs on Wednesday, more than three decades after the agency banned its use in cosmetics due to potential cancer risks.
Consumer advocates and nutritionists praised the FDA for the move, although many also said it was overdue. In 1990, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned the dye’s use in cosmetics and topical medications after a study found it caused cancer in male rats. For years, consumer and health advocates have pushed the agency to do the same for foods, since federal rules require the Food and Drug Administration to ban additives proven to cause cancer in animals or humans.
Still, the F.D.A He said In its announcement that the way Red 3 causes cancer in male rats “does not occur in humans,” and “studies in other animals and humans have not shown these effects; Claims that the use of FD&C Red No. 3 In food and ingested medications, it exposes people to danger that is not supported by available scientific information.
The US Food and Drug Administration said food and drug manufacturers will have until January 15, 2027 or January 18, 2028, respectively, to remove the dye from their products. Although other countries still allow the dye to be used in some products, all foods are imported. To us must comply with the new requirement.
Here’s what you should know.
What is red 3 in?
Red 3 is an artificial color dye used to brighten the appearance of food products, giving them a vibrant red color, according to Brian Ronholm, director of food policy at Consumer Reports. Ronholm says the dye has no nutritional value and is used purely for aesthetic purposes.
While some food manufacturers stopped using the dye in their products years ago, Ronholm says it can still be found in some products, such as candy and other snacks. The dye can also be found in some cereals and baked goods, says Vanessa Rissetto, a registered dietitian and co-founder of clinical nutrition company Collina Health.
What will companies replace Red 3 with?
Ronholm says many companies around the world have already started using alternatives to Red 3, such as beet extract or other natural alternatives.
“Here’s another frustrating part of this, from a consumer perspective: red dye 3 is banned in other parts of the world, so more natural, less toxic alternatives are already being used, and in many cases, just as expensive.” “Effective,” Ronholm says. “It is frustrating to think that these food companies provide these safer versions in other parts of the world, but the lower quality versions remain for sale here in the United States.”
according to Sensitive food colourswhich makes food colors and flavors. Other alternatives to Red 3 include cochineal (which many may not know is made from insects) and dyes from purple sweet potatoes, radishes, and red cabbage.
Are other dyes safe?
Ronholm says consumer advocates have concerns about other types of dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2 and Green 3 — all of which are found in California. Forbidden From meals, drinks and snacks provided by public schools in September 2024, due to concerns that the six dyes are linked to health and behavioral problems in some children. Food and Drug Administration Not proven established a “causal relationship” between children’s consumption of the six dyes and behavioral effects, but recommended further research. Agency It is still allowed The six dyes used in foods.
“We hope this is just the first step for the FDA to focus more on synthetic food dyes, chemicals, and additives,” Ronholm says. “This should not be a ‘standalone victory’. It should be the first step in an expanded process.”
