FDA Bans Red 3 Food Dye: Discover Which Popular Products You Need to Watch Out For!

FDA Bans Red 3 Food Dye

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a ban on Red 3 dye in food and drinks. This decision comes after the dye was prohibited in cosmetics nearly 35 years ago due to concerns about cancer risks.

What’s Happening: The FDA is instructing food and drug manufacturers to eliminate Red 3 from products sold in the U.S. The dye was linked to cancer in rats, which is why it was banned in cosmetics. However, it continued to be used in various food items until now.

Los Angeles nutritionist Ilana Muhlstein expressed her relief over the ban, noting that Red 3 has been present in many snacks and drinks for too long. She pointed out that it’s surprising this decision took so long, especially after the evidence against it had been clear for decades.

Consumer groups have long advocated for this change, highlighting not only the cancer risks but also potential connections to hyperactivity and ADHD in children.

Products That Contain Red 3

A variety of foods and medications used to include Red 3. Common items were brightly colored candies, baked goods with red icing, and strawberry-flavored products. Specific examples include:

• Swedish Fish
• Wild Cherry Lifesavers
• Pillsbury Funfetti Valentine’s Day Vanilla Frosting
• Edy’s Strawberry Ice Cream
• Some maraschino cherries
• Robitussin Adult Cough Syrup

These are just a few examples of products that have now been impacted by this important health decision.