The FDA has recently banned Red No. 3, a synthetic food dye linked to cancer in animal studies. This decision came after the dye was found to violate the Delaney Clause, which prohibits food additives that could cause cancer.
In 2022, a petition highlighted studies demonstrating that high exposure to Red No. 3 led to cancer in male rats. However, researchers caution that these findings may not directly apply to humans due to differences in metabolism.
This ban marks a step toward better regulation of harmful additives. However, many people are still concerned about synthetic dyes, especially since other dyes, like Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, and Blue No. 1, face less stringent rules in the U.S. than in Europe, where regulations are tighter.
Pez candy in a store in Lafayette, California. California recently became the first state to ban several harmful food additives, including Red No. 3.
Interestingly, Red No. 40 is still allowed, even though studies indicate it might lead to hyperactivity in children. Unlike Red No. 3, which has been banned, Red No. 40 is prevalent in many American snacks like Doritos, Skittles, and Froot Loops. In Europe, many of these snacks use natural dyes instead, which are usually listed clearly on ingredient labels.
Health experts have long warned against ultra-processed foods, as they may contribute to serious health issues, including cancer. Recently, scientists have begun focusing on synthetic food dyes as potentially harmful additives.
Research is especially urgent as the rate of colorectal cancer is rising among those under 50. Studies often use small rodents to examine the effects of these dyes. For example, a study by researchers at the University of South Carolina found that mice exposed to Red No. 40 showed signs of DNA damage, an inflamed microbiome, and developed Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
This is alarming news, particularly since 94% of Americans over age two regularly consume Red No. 40. Until stricter regulations are put in place, it can be challenging for consumers to understand the true risks of food additives in their diets.
Source link
tovima.com, news in english, Politics, Society, Finance, Tourism, Culture, Science, Climate, Opinions, WSJ, Tovima English, english vima, tovima english edition
Education
Transforming Education: State Senator Highlights Legislative Imperative for Reform