FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3, Common In Candies & Snacks, After Research Links It To Cancer In Animals

FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3, Common In Candies & Snacks, After Research Links It To Cancer In Animals

The FDA is taking a major step to better protect the health of Americans!

Reports say the federal agency has officially banned the use of Red Dye No. 3 in food, beverages, and ingested drugs, citing long-standing concerns about its potential links to cancer in animals. Dr. Jerold Mande, adjunct professor of nutrition at the Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, wrote in a statement,

“Today’s action by the FDA is long overdue, is a small step in the right direction, and hopefully signals a renewed effort by the FDA to do its job despite the many barriers the food industry places in its way.”

 

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The synthetic color, made from petroleum, has been used for decades to give products a vibrant cherry-red hue.

This decision follows a 2022 petition from advocacy groups, including the Center for Science in the Public Interest, and comes after California implemented a similar ban in 2023. Companies have until 2027 to reformulate food products and until 2028 for drugs containing the dye.

While some major brands have already phased out Red Dye No. 3, it remains in products from other manufacturers, including certain candies. As a replacement, many companies are now using Red Dye No. 40, which is seen as a safer alternative, though concerns about it remain in places like California.

What are your thoughts on the ban? Tell us in the comments below! 

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