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3mo ago

FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3 in Foods Over Health Concerns

The decision follows decades of scrutiny and aligns U.S. regulations with restrictions already in place in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.

FDA approved stamp
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What the ban on Red Dye No. 3 means for consumers. (Getty Images)

Overview

  • The FDA has banned Red Dye No. 3 in food products, citing studies linking it to thyroid cancer in rats, with food manufacturers required to reformulate by January 2027.
  • The dye, used in candies, cereals, baked goods, and other products, was already prohibited in cosmetics and certain drugs since 1990 due to health concerns.
  • California's 2023 legislation banning Red Dye No. 3 influenced the FDA's decision, reflecting growing advocacy for stricter regulations on food additives in the U.S.
  • While human studies have not confirmed the same cancer risks observed in animals, watchdog groups have pushed for the ban based on legal and precautionary principles.
  • The FDA's move does not affect other synthetic dyes like Red No. 40, which remains under scrutiny for potential links to behavioral issues in children.