For decades, Red Dye No. 3 has added vibrant cherry-red hues to candies, frostings, cookies, and even some medications. This synthetic dye, also known as erythrosine, is made from petroleum and has been a staple in the food industry. However, recent regulatory actions have sparked widespread discussions about its safety and future.
The FDA’s Landmark Decision
On a significant Wednesday, the FDA announced the ban on Red Dye No. 3 in food, beverages, and ingested drugs. This decision comes more than 30 years after scientists linked the dye to cancer in animals. The ban is a response to a petition from advocacy groups like the Center for Science in the Public Interest and the Environmental Working Group, who highlighted the dye’s potential health risks. Companies have up to three years to reformulate their products, making this a monumental shift for the food industry.
Common Products Containing Red Dye No. 3
| Category | Products |
|---|---|
| Candy | Brach’s candy corn, Conversation hearts, Pez, Ring Pops |
| Desserts | Safeway’s Select peppermint ice cream, Kroger Neapolitan ice cream |
| Snacks | Nesquik strawberry-flavored milk, Betty Crocker pasta salads, Jack Link’s beef and cheddar sticks |
| Other Foods | Canned fruits, Imitation bacon bits |
Products Affected by the Ban
The ban on Red Dye No. 3 will impact a wide range of products. Here are some of the most notable ones:
Candy and Sweets
- Brach’s Candy Corn and Conversation Hearts: Popular during Halloween and Valentine’s Day, these candies are known for their bright colors.
- Pez and Ring Pops: Childhood favorites that will need a makeover.
- Popsicles like Nerds Bomb Pops: Iconic summer treats with vibrant colors.
Desserts
- Ice Cream: Brands like Safeway’s Select peppermint ice cream and Kroger Neapolitan ice cream.
- Frostings and Cupcakes: Often found in seasonal offerings like Valentine’s Day cupcakes from Target.
- Cookies: Including Walmart’s Freshness Guaranteed heart sugar cookies and frosted circus animal cookies.
Snacks and Other Food Products
- Nesquik Strawberry-Flavored Milk: A popular choice among children.
- Betty Crocker Pasta Salads: Containing imitation bacon bits with Red Dye No. 3.
- Jack Link’s Beef and Cheddar Sticks: A favorite snack for many.
- Canned Fruits: Such as mixed fruit from Publix.
A Step in the Right Direction
Dr. Jerold Mande, adjunct professor of nutrition at the Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, described the FDA’s decision as “long overdue” and a “small step in the right direction.” The action signals the agency’s renewed effort to prioritize public health despite industry challenges. Ken Cook, cofounder and president of the Environmental Working Group, hailed the decision as a “monumental victory” for consumer health and safety.
The History of Red Dye No. 3
Red Dye No. 3 has a controversial history. Although banned in cosmetics over 30 years ago due to its carcinogenic effects in rats, the dye continued to be used in food. The FDA has repeatedly reevaluated its safety, and while no direct links to cancer in humans were found, the Delaney Clause of the FDA’s Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act mandates that any additive causing cancer in animals should not be approved for ingestion.
Alternatives and Their Implications
Some companies have already shifted to Red Dye No. 40, considered a safer alternative. However, even Red Dye No. 40 faces scrutiny. California banned this dye from foods and drinks sold in public schools due to potential links to behavioral issues in children. Studies have also raised concerns about its association with immune-system tumor growth in mice and its benzene content, a known carcinogen.
The Regulatory Paradox
The FDA’s approval of Red Dye No. 3 despite the Delaney Clause represents a regulatory paradox. Although the dye causes cancer in animals, the mechanism does not occur in humans, leading to continued use in food. The FDA’s recent decision to revoke its authorization aligns with legal mandates, reflecting a commitment to consumer safety.
Health Impacts and Scientific Findings
Several studies have further questioned the safety of Red Dye No. 3. A 2012 report linked the additive to cancer in animals. Additionally, researchers have suggested that artificial food colorings, including Red Dye No. 3, may contribute to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. A 2021 study by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment found that Red Dye No. 3 could lead to behavioral issues and decreased attention in children.
A Colorful Future Ahead
The FDA’s ban on Red Dye No. 3 marks a significant milestone in food safety regulation. While the vibrant cherry-red hues may fade from our favorite treats, the decision underscores the importance of prioritizing health over aesthetics. As the food industry adapts to this change, consumers can look forward to a future where safety and well-being take center stage.
FAQs
What is Red Dye No. 3?
Red Dye No. 3, also known as erythrosine, is a synthetic color additive made from petroleum. It’s used to give food, beverages, and some medications a bright cherry-red color. The chemical name for this dye is erythrosine, and it has been widely used in the food industry for its vibrant hue.
Why has the FDA banned Red Dye No. 3?
The FDA decided to ban Red Dye No. 3 after multiple studies linked it to cancer in lab animals. Over 30 years ago, it was already banned in cosmetics due to these findings. Recent advocacy from groups like the Center for Science in the Public Interest and the Environmental Working Group prompted the FDA to reconsider and ban the dye in food and ingested drugs.
Which products are affected by the ban on Red Dye No. 3?
The ban will impact a wide range of products, including:
- Candies: Brach’s candy corn, conversation hearts, Pez, Ring Pops, and more.
- Desserts: Safeway’s Select peppermint ice cream, Kroger Neapolitan ice cream, cupcakes with red frosting, and cookies with red sprinkles.
- Snacks: Nesquik strawberry-flavored milk, imitation bacon bits, Jack Link’s beef and cheddar sticks, canned fruits, and more.
What are the health risks associated with Red Dye No. 3?
Studies have shown that Red Dye No. 3 can cause cancer in lab rats when ingested in high doses. Although these findings haven’t been directly proven in humans, the Delaney Clause of the FDA’s Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires the FDA to ban any additive found to cause cancer in animals or humans.
What alternatives to Red Dye No. 3 are available?
Companies are turning to natural alternatives and other synthetic dyes. Some popular natural options include beet juice, carmine (derived from cochineal insects), and pigments from foods like purple sweet potato and red cabbage. Red Dye No. 40 is another synthetic dye that some companies use, though it too has faced scrutiny.
How long do manufacturers have to comply with the ban?
Food manufacturers have until January 2027 to remove Red Dye No. 3 from their products. Manufacturers of ingested drugs have a slightly longer timeframe, until January 2028, to reformulate their products without the dye.
Will the ban affect imported foods and products?
Yes, imported foods and products must also comply with the FDA’s ban. This means that any food or ingested drug containing Red Dye No. 3 that is imported into the United States will need to be reformulated to meet the new regulations.
What is the Delaney Clause?
The Delaney Clause is a provision in the FDA’s Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act that prohibits the FDA from approving any food additive found to cause cancer in humans or animals. This clause has been a cornerstone in regulating food safety and was instrumental in the decision to ban Red Dye No. 3.
Are there other artificial dyes still allowed in food?
Yes, other artificial dyes like Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, and Blue No. 1 are still allowed in food. However, these dyes have also faced criticism and scrutiny over their potential health impacts, including links to behavioral issues in children.
What should consumers look for on labels to avoid Red Dye No. 3?
Consumers should check product labels for terms like “Red Dye No. 3,” “FD&C Red No. 3,” or “erythrosine.” Being vigilant about reading ingredient lists can help consumers make informed choices and avoid products containing this additive.
