
The FDA has announced a ban on Red No. 3, a common food coloring, due to cancer concerns and potential behavioral effects on children.
At a Glance
- FDA bans Red No. 3 in food products, effective January 15, 2027
- The dye is found in various products including candy, cereals, and ice cream
- Ban follows growing concerns about health effects, including cancer risks in animals
- Some parents report behavioral changes in children after consuming products with the dye
FDA Takes Action Against Red No. 3
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a significant ban on the use of Red No. 3 in food products, set to take effect on January 15, 2027. This decision comes after years of mounting concerns about the potential health risks associated with this widely used artificial coloring agent. The ban extends to ingested drugs, which will need to comply by January 18, 2028.
Red No. 3, a petroleum-derived dye approved for food use since 1907, has been a staple in the food industry for decades. It’s commonly found in a variety of products including gummies, ice cream cones, frostings, toaster pastries, candy, cereals, and strawberry-flavored milkshakes. The FDA’s decision to ban this additive marks a significant shift in food safety regulations and consumer protection.
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 to ban Red No. 3 stems from studies linking high levels of the dye to cancer in male rats. While human exposure is typically much lower than the levels used in these studies, the FDA cannot authorize additives found to cause cancer in humans or animals. This precautionary approach aligns with the agency’s commitment to public health and safety.
“The FDA cannot authorize a food additive or color additive if it has been found to cause cancer in human or animals,” said Jim Jones, FDA 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 following the consumption of foods with this dye. While studies have shown only an association and not causation, these observations have contributed to the growing concern about the dye’s safety.
Industry Response and Global Context
The National Confectioners Association has expressed support for the FDA’s decision, emphasizing the importance of a strong regulatory framework. Many U.S. manufacturers have already taken steps to remove Red No. 3 from their products, anticipating this regulatory change. The ban aligns the United States with other countries such as Australia, Japan, and the European Union, where the dye is already banned or restricted.
“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.
California and ten other states had already moved to ban the dye, with California passing a law set to take effect in 2027. This state-level action likely contributed to the FDA’s decision to implement a nationwide ban. The transition period until 2027 allows food companies time to modify their recipes and switch to safer alternatives, many of which are already in use in other parts of the world.
Looking Ahead
As the food industry prepares for this significant change, consumers can expect to see gradual modifications in the appearance of certain products. Alternatives to Red No. 3, such as beet extract, are likely to become more prevalent. The FDA’s decision represents a victory for consumer advocacy groups and lawmakers who have long pushed for this ban, citing public health concerns.
While the ban on Red No. 3 is a significant step, it’s worth noting that the FDA still approves 35 other color additives, including eight other synthetic dyes. As research continues and public awareness grows, it’s possible that we may see further scrutiny of food additives in the future, potentially leading to more changes in food safety regulations.