FDA Considers Ban on Red 3 Food Dye Over Health Concerns

The proposed decision follows decades of scrutiny over the petroleum-based additive linked to cancer and behavioral issues in children.

The FDA is reviewing a petition to revoke the authorization of Red 3, a synthetic food dye used in thousands of products, including candies, cereals, and snacks.
Red 3 has been banned in cosmetics since 1990 due to evidence of carcinogenicity in animal studies but remains approved for use in foods and drugs in the U.S.
Consumer advocacy groups and some lawmakers argue that the dye poses health risks, including potential links to cancer and behavioral issues in children, citing studies and international restrictions.
California and other states have recently passed or proposed legislation banning Red 3 and similar artificial dyes, increasing pressure on manufacturers to reformulate products nationwide.
FDA officials acknowledge limitations in post-market safety reviews for additives already in the food supply, contrasting with stricter regulations in Europe and other regions.