In a landmark decision on January 15, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the revocation of authorization for the use of FD&C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs, citing its association with cancer in animal studies. This move comes more than three decades after the dye was banned in cosmetics and topical drugs in 1990 due to similar health concerns.
What is Red No. 3, and Where is it Found?
Red No. 3, also known as erythrosine, is a synthetic dye that imparts a bright, cherry-red color to various products. It has been commonly used in items such as:
- Candies (e.g., jelly beans, gummies, and licorice)
- Baked goods (e.g., cake decorations and frostings)
- Maraschino cherries
- Certain cereals
- Some medications and cough syrups
- Processed meats, including certain hot dogs and sausages
- Beverages, particularly fruit-flavored drinks
The dye has long been criticized for its potential health risks, yet it has remained a staple in the food industry due to its vibrant color and cost-effectiveness.
Health Risks to Humans
The FDA’s decision to ban Red No. 3 aligns with the Delaney Clause of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, which prohibits the use of additives found to induce cancer in humans or animals. Studies dating back to the 1980s demonstrated the dye’s carcinogenic effects in laboratory animals, leading to concerns over its impact on human health. While the FDA acknowledges that the mechanism by which Red No. 3 causes cancer in male rats does not occur in humans, and that typical human exposure levels are much lower, the decision to ban the dye is a precautionary measure to uphold public health standards.
Additional health concerns related to synthetic dyes, including Red No. 3, include:
- Hyperactivity and behavioral issues in children
- Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
- Potential thyroid toxicity in high doses
Companies Using or Manufacturing Red No. 3
Many major food companies have used Red No. 3 in their products, including:
- Mars Inc. (candy brands like Skittles and Starburst)
- General Mills (certain cereals and fruit snacks)
- Kellogg’s (breakfast cereals and snacks)
- Mondelez International (various processed snacks and confectionery)
- Some pharmaceutical companies using it in medication coatings
While some companies have begun reformulating their products in response to growing consumer demand for natural alternatives, many still rely on synthetic dyes due to their lower cost and longer shelf life.
What Other Synthetic Dyes Are Still in Use?
Even with the ban on Red No. 3, the U.S. still permits the use of several synthetic dyes, including:
- Red No. 40 (Allura Red) – The most widely used red dye, found in sodas, chips, and candies
- Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine) – Found in soft drinks, cereals, and snacks
- Yellow No. 6 (Sunset Yellow) – Used in flavored drinks, chips, and processed foods
- Blue No. 1 (Brilliant Blue) – Found in sports drinks and ice creams
- Blue No. 2 (Indigo Carmine) – Used in candies and pet food
- Green No. 3 (Fast Green) – Used in sauces and some beverages
These dyes have also been linked to health concerns, prompting calls for stricter regulations and greater transparency in food labeling.
Healthier Alternatives & How to Avoid Synthetic Dyes
Consumers looking to avoid synthetic dyes should opt for products colored with natural alternatives, such as:
- Beet juice extract
- Turmeric
- Annatto
- Paprika extract
- Carrot juice
- Spirulina
Reading ingredient labels is crucial to avoiding synthetic dyes. Look for products labeled as “artificial color-free” or those using plant-based dyes. Many organic and health-conscious brands now offer dye-free options, making it easier for consumers to make informed choices.
With the ban on Red No. 3 marking a significant step toward safer food regulations, consumers are encouraged to continue advocating for cleaner, more transparent food ingredients. By staying informed and choosing natural alternatives, individuals can protect their health and influence industry practices toward more responsible food production.
