FDA Prohibits Red No. 3 Dye in Food and Beverages: What You Need to Know!

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is set to ban Red No. 3, a synthetic dye commonly found in food and drinks. This decision comes after health groups petitioned for the ban in 2022.

Red No. 3 is known for giving a vibrant red color to items like candy, cakes, and some medications. Although some studies indicated that it might cause cancer in rats, the FDA insists that there is no clear link for humans. Still, the agency has to revoke its approval because of a rule against allowing substances that could cause cancer in any animal.

Manufacturers will have until 2027 to change their recipes, while companies that make drugs have until 2028 to adjust their products.

At a recent Senate hearing, FDA Commissioner Robert Califf discussed delays in banning the dye. He noted that the FDA lacks funding for thorough safety monitoring, which is more extensive in Europe, where Red No. 3 has been largely banned since 1994. The dye has not been allowed in cosmetics since 1990.

Interestingly, another color additive, Red 40, remains permissible, despite studies suggesting it may also be a carcinogen in animals.

Red No. 3 was first approved by the FDA in 1969 and has undergone multiple reviews since then.