US Government Bans Popular Red Dye in Food Products After 35 Years of Controversy
US Bans Red Dye No. 3 From Foods
Source: New York Post
Overview of the Ban
The FDA has issued an order to ban Red No. 3 from food products and ingested drugs, effective January 15, 2027, for food manufacturers, and until January 18, 2028, for drug manufacturers. This move follows over 35 years since its ban in cosmetics, based on evidence linking the dye to cancer.
Background of Red No. 3
- Approved for use in 1907.
- Banned in cosmetics and topical drugs since 1990 due to cancer risk.
- Already restricted in countries such as Australia, Japan, and various EU nations.
Health Concerns
The Delaney Clause of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act prohibits the approval of any substance causing cancer in humans or animals. Studies indicated that high levels of the dye caused cancer in laboratory rats.
Concerns for Consumers
- Red No. 3 is commonly found in products targeting children, raising additional health risk concerns.
- Notable foods containing Red No. 3 include:
- Candy and gum (e.g., Dubble Bubble, Ring Pops)
- Popular baking products (e.g., Betty Crocker sprinkles).
Industry Response
The ban aligns with movements from other states, including California, which has already taken steps to eliminate the dye from foods. Major food brands are now beginning to reformulate products to remove Red No. 3 in response to regulatory pressures.
Conclusion
This ban marks a significant step in food safety and consumer health advocacy, emphasizing the need to reassess food additives and protect public health.
