In the near future, the cherry on top of your sundae might be a pale, translucent pink. The vibrant specks in Pillsbury Funfetti cupcakes could resemble salt and pepper instead of their usual rainbow hues. And those vivid fruit crumbles in Good Humor Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream bars? They might be a thing of the past. Why? The FDA has officially banned Red No. 3, the synthetic dye responsible for giving many foods, drinks, and even medicines their bright red color.
This ban comes 35 years after the dye was banned in cosmetic products and topical medications due to studies showing that it caused cancer in rats.
Additionally, studies suggest potential links between synthetic food dyes and behavioral issues in children, including hyperactivity and attention deficits.
This synthetic food coloring is derived from petroleum and has been a staple ingredient in everything from your favorite candies and desserts to cough syrups. Its attractive red color has made it especially popular with manufacturers, particularly for items marketed to children.
The FDA banned the dye in response to a 2022 petition filed by the D.C. based health advocacy group Center for Science in the Public Interest. It invoked the 1958 Delaney Clause, a provision within the U.S. Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act that prohibits any food additives that have been shown to cause cancer in humans or animals.
According to Jim Jones, the FDA’s deputy commissioner for human foods, “evidence shows cancer in laboratory male rats exposed to high levels of FD&C Red No.3. Importantly, the way that FD&C Red No. 3 causes cancer in male rats does not occur in humans.”
However, according to the Delaney clause, regardless of the level of exposure or the likelihood of causing cancer in humans, any food additives found to be carcinogenic must be banned.
The FDA has given manufacturers a two-year timeline to remove Red Dye No. 3 from their products. During this period, the FDA will provide alternatives for coloring options to companies affected.
Experts predict that the ban could serve as a catalyst for broader reforms in food safety regulation.
As you shop for snacks, it is a good idea to check out ingredient labels of products that look artificially colored to avoid Red Dye 3 as much as possible. The dye can also be found on packaging under the name erythrosine, FD&C Red No. 3 or Red 3.