FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3 from Food, Beverages, and Drugs Due to Health Concerns

In a major move to protect public health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially banned the use of red dye No. 3 in food, beverages, and ingested drugs. This decision comes over 30 years after scientific studies first discovered potential links between the dye and cancer in animals. Red dye No. 3, also known by its chemical name erythrosine, is a synthetic color additive derived from petroleum. It has been widely used in various products to give them a bright cherry-red color, especially in candies, food, and some drugs.

Background of the Ban

The FDA’s decision to ban the dye follows the submission of a petition in November 2022 by several advocacy groups and individuals, including the Center for Science in the Public Interest and the Environmental Working Group. These organizations cited concerns about red dye No. 3’s potential carcinogenic effects, referencing studies that linked the dye to cancer in animals. Although these findings were made decades ago, the FDA had not taken action until now, prompting frustration among health experts and advocacy groups.

In fact, the decision follows a similar ban by the state of California, which took action in October 2023 to outlaw the use of red dye No. 3. With the FDA now enforcing the ban, manufacturers of food and drugs that use the dye will have until January 15, 2027, and January 18, 2028, respectively, to reformulate their products. This means companies will need to find alternative ways to achieve the vibrant red color in their products. The ban will also apply to imported foods and drugs, ensuring that all products sold in the U.S. comply with these new regulations.

A Long-Awaited Victory for Consumer Health

Health experts and consumer advocacy groups have long called for this change, with many considering the ban a significant victory for consumer health. Dr. Jerold Mande, an adjunct professor of nutrition at Harvard University’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health, called the FDA’s action “long overdue” and hoped that it would signal a renewed commitment by the agency to prioritize public health over industry interests.

Ken Cook, cofounder and president of the Environmental Working Group, also celebrated the ban as a monumental victory. He praised the relentless work of public health advocates, such as Michael Jacobson, who have been fighting for decades to raise awareness about the potential dangers of red dye No. 3 and other harmful additives in food and consumer products.

“This decision is a small step in the right direction,” Cook said, emphasizing the importance of continued efforts to protect consumers from harmful ingredients.

Impact on Popular Products and Brands

Red dye No. 3 is found in numerous popular products, including candies, foods, and beverages. However, many companies had already started phasing out the use of the dye even before the FDA’s decision. Ferrara, the candy company behind Brach’s candies, for example, reported that fewer than 10% of their products contained red dye No. 3, as they began removing it from their products in early 2023.

Similarly, Just Born, the company behind the famous PEEPS marshmallow candies, announced that it would stop using red dye No. 3 after Easter 2024. These companies have already embraced alternatives, including red dye No. 40, which has been considered a safer option. Unlike red dye No. 3, red dye No. 40 has not been as strongly associated with cancer in animal studies.

Red Dye No. 40 Under Scrutiny

While red dye No. 3 is now banned, red dye No. 40 is still commonly used as a substitute in food products. However, red dye No. 40 has also been under scrutiny due to concerns about its effects on health. In fact, California recently banned red dye No. 40 from being used in food and drinks sold in public schools because of concerns over its potential links to behavioral and attention problems in children. Some studies have suggested that the dye may be connected to accelerated immune-system tumor growth in mice, and it’s also linked to the presence of benzene, a known carcinogen.

The growing concerns about food dyes highlight the importance of continued research into the safety of food additives and the need for stronger regulations to protect consumers. While the ban on red dye No. 3 is a significant step forward, many health experts and consumer advocates are urging the FDA to closely examine other food dyes and their potential impact on human health.

Looking Ahead: More Work to Be Done

The FDA’s decision to ban red dye No. 3 is being celebrated as a victory for consumer safety, but it also marks the beginning of ongoing efforts to improve the safety of food and drug additives. With growing awareness of the potential risks posed by synthetic dyes and other chemicals, it’s clear that more work needs to be done to ensure that the products we consume are safe.

As the food and beverage industries adjust to the new regulations, the hope is that this ban will set a precedent for stricter regulations and greater transparency in the food industry. It’s a win for public health, and a reminder that consumer advocacy can bring about meaningful change.