Local Food Experts Celebrate FDA’s Bold Ban on Red Dye No. 3: What It Means for Your Health

The FDA has announced a ban on Red Dye No. 3, a synthetic coloring used in food, drinks, and some medications. This dye has a long history, being first approved in 1907. It gives products a vibrant red hue, but studies have found it may cause cancer in lab rats. While no direct link has been confirmed in humans, the FDA decided to take action based on these findings and the Delaney Clause, which prohibits any additive shown to cause cancer.

Chef Scott O’Farrell remembers a similar situation from the 1980s when he worked as a dishwasher and prepped food at a restaurant. He recalls a mandatory usage of potato whitener before it was banned for health concerns. He wonders why certain additives were ever allowed in our food in the first place.

Food companies must stop using Red Dye No. 3 by January 15, 2025. Interestingly, some manufacturers may switch to Red Dye No. 40, though this dye is also under scrutiny for potential links to hyperactivity in children.

Recently, California took a step further by passing the California School Food Safety Act, which bans six harmful dyes, including Red Dye No. 3 and Red Dye No. 40, in public schools. This move aims to protect children from neurobehavioral problems associated with these additives.

Registered dietitian Halle Sapperstein supports these bans. She encourages parents to be proactive by checking labels for harmful dyes. Although many foods are appealing because of their bright colors, Sapperstein believes that kids can learn to choose healthier alternatives.

Although change is underway, O’Farrell hopes this is just the beginning. He sees a noticeable difference in how food regulations are handled in countries like France, which have strict rules on additives.

Here’s a look at where Red Dye No. 3 often appears and some safer alternatives:

Candies: Brach’s Conversation Hearts and Candy Corn contain Red Dye No. 3, while Twizzlers use a different dye.

Baked Goods: Betty Crocker Red Decorating Icing includes Red 3, but Pillsbury’s Funfetti frosting uses a safer dye.

Dairy Products: Items like Edy’s Strawberry Ice Cream avoid Red Dye No. 3 by using beet juice for color, a trend that may catch on.

Fruit Products: While some fruit cocktails still use Red No. 3, brands like Walmart have switched to safer alternatives.

Beverages: Ensure Original Strawberry Nutrition Shake has Red Dye No. 3, but many popular drinks, like Kool-Aid and Fanta, use Red 40 instead.

Medications: Some cough drops and vitamins may still contain Red 3, but many are moving towards natural colors.

As consumers become more aware, it’s important to stay informed about what goes into our food and make healthier choices for ourselves and our families.

Check out this related article: Smart Strategies for Cutting Food Waste in 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Living