Why the FDA Banned Red 3 Food Coloring: A Scientist Unveils Its History and Health Risks You Should Know

Red 3, also known as FD&C Red No. 3 or E127, has been used in food, cosmetics, and medicines since the FDA approved it in 1969. You’ll find it in many popular items like candies, drinks, baked goods, and even some medications.

But recent studies raise serious health concerns about Red 3. This led California to ban it in food in 2023, and starting January 15, 2025, the FDA will prohibit it in foods and drugs across the nation.

As a researcher focusing on inflammation and cancer, I study how synthetic dyes like Red 3 affect health. The growing regulations reflect increasing worries about the harmful effects of these dyes, including their potential link to cancer.

Health Risks of Red 3

Research over the last few decades sheds light on the dangers of Red 3. While we can’t yet directly link it to cancer in humans, animal studies suggest it could be carcinogenic.

One major concern is Red 3’s impact on the thyroid. It hampers the thyroid’s ability to absorb iodine, which is crucial for hormone production. This disruption can lead to thyroid problems and increase the risk of related disorders.

Furthermore, animal studies have shown that Red 3 might encourage the formation of tumors in the thyroid. Reports of enlarged thyroid glands and hormone regulation issues in rats and other animals support this finding.

Brain health is another area of concern. Studies indicate that Red 3 can create oxidative stress, damaging brain tissues. It may also cause inflammation in the brain, which could affect neuron function and communication. Additionally, it may worsen conditions like Alzheimer’s by interacting with harmful peptides.

Regulatory Changes

Red 3 faced scrutiny as early as the 1980s when studies connected it to thyroid tumors in male rats. Although it was banned in cosmetics in 1990, it continued to be used in food products due to industry pressure. The European Union limited its use to specific processed cherries in 1994, while the U.S. lagged behind.

The recent California ban sparked renewed discussions about the potential risks of Red 3, leading to calls for stricter federal regulations. The FDA’s upcoming nationwide ban in 2025 is a significant step, based on enough animal study evidence suggesting the need for action, even without direct evidence of harm to humans.

It’s worth noting that it took over 35 years from initial findings of thyroid cancer in rodents to this upcoming ban.

A Path Forward

The timeline of Red 3’s approval to its eventual ban shows the struggle between industrial interests and public safety. Keeping an eye on such additives is important for consumer protection.

Starting in 2027, companies will need to reformulate their products to remove Red 3. While some countries still allow it, U.S. imports must meet safety regulations. Aligning global regulations on synthetic dyes is vital to safeguard health.

Some companies are already moving away from synthetic dyes. For example, Mars plans to eliminate artificial colors from its foods, and General Mills has announced similar intentions.

To minimize your exposure to Red 3, read ingredient labels carefully. Look for “FD&C Red No. 3” or “E127,” and choose items with natural alternatives. Making homemade meals with natural color sources like beet juice can also help. Supporting brands that avoid synthetic dyes further promotes safer food practices.

Continued research and policy changes are essential to keep food additives like Red 3 from posing risks to public health.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.