The United States may soon follow other countries in banning the food dye Red 3, which has been linked to health risks, including thyroid cancer and hyperactivity in children. The dye, commonly used in snacks, candies, and beverages, was banned for use in cosmetics back in 1990. However, it still appears in numerous food products across the country, despite being prohibited in countries such as the UK, Australia, and Japan.
California led the charge in 2023, banning Red 3 as a food additive. Since then, ten other states, including New York, Maryland, and Washington, have proposed legislation to limit its use. The FDA is now under increased pressure to revoke approval for the dye following petitions and calls from public health advocates and lawmakers. Officials have highlighted the urgent need to reassess the safety of synthetic additives like Red 3.
During a Senate hearing, FDA deputy commissioner Jim Jones acknowledged the decade-long gap in safety evaluations of food dyes. Meanwhile, critics argue that companies exploit outdated FDA standards to keep potentially dangerous chemicals on shelves. This concern is heightened during the holiday season when brightly colored treats flood the market.
Beyond Red 3, other artificial dyes like Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Red 40 have also raised health concerns. Researchers and health organizations are pushing for broader reforms to remove harmful additives from food production, calling on companies to prioritize consumer safety over cost-cutting practices.
