What the FDA ban on Red Dye No. 3 means for consumers ...Middle East

banned the use of the synthetic food dye Red Dye No. 3 in food products. While the discontinuation of the allowance of Red No. 3 is significant, this action doesn’t signal the end of all artificial food dyes in our food supply. This step has sparked new discussion on the safety and use of food dye.

So, why has the FDA banned this specific ingredient and what does this mean for consumers?

This federal ban aligns with California’s 2023 ban, which prohibits the sale of foods containing Red No. 3 starting in 2027. This ban will bring the U.S. up to speed with Europe, Australia and New Zealand, where use of this dye is restricted.

Red No. 3, also known as Erythrosine, is found in thousands of foods and beverages including candy, breakfast cereals, baking mixes, frozen treats, processed meats, canned fruit cocktail and fruit-flavored drinks, among others. It was first approved by the FDA in 1907. However, concerns about its safety began to surface over recent decades. Studies in the 1980s showed that high doses of Red No. 3 could cause thyroid tumors in laboratory animals, raising questions about its potential risks to human health.

The decision to ban Red No. 3 from food is a result of ongoing scientific evaluations and heightened concerns about the long-term health effects of artificial food dyes from advocacy organizations and individuals. The FDA’s decision reflects a growing commitment to ensuring that food additives don’t present unnecessary health risks.

It’s important to note that the FDA’s action on Red No. 3 doesn’t mean that all artificial food dyes will be banned. There are still a variety of synthetic dyes approved for use in food, such as Red No. 40, which has been linked to behavioral concerns in children, Yellow No. 5, Blue No. 1 and others, that remain deemed safe under current regulations. The FDA continues to monitor these additives, conducting regular reviews of scientific studies to determine if any pose a potential risk.

For consumers, the ban on Red No. 3 represents a small victory for public health and safety. It shows that the FDA is actively engaged in protecting the American food supply from harmful additives. As more studies emerge and consumer advocacy grows, we may see additional changes in how artificial dyes are used.

Food manufacturers have until January 15, 2027, to reformulate their products. While some companies may transition to natural colorants like beet juice and turmeric as alternatives to synthetic dyes others may opt to use approved artificial food dyes to keep costs down. Consumers can continue to use the ingredients list on food packages to stay informed about what is in their foods including food dyes and other artificial additives.

Ultimately, while the FDA’s ban on Red No. 3 is a significant step, it’s not a blanket action against all food dyes. Food companies have the next two years to discontinue the use of this ingredient. The FDA will continue to assess the safety of food additives and will take action when necessary to protect consumers. We as consumers can prioritize eating more whole foods over ultra-processed foods and continue to read food labels to make the best food choices for ourselves and our families.

LeeAnn Weintraub, MPH, RD is a registered dietitian, providing nutrition counseling and consulting to individuals, families and organizations. She can be reached by email at [email protected].

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