The FDA has officially banned Red Dye No. 3 from all food products and ingested medications in the United States, citing evidence linking the dye to cancer in laboratory tests. This decision comes 35 years after the dye was prohibited in cosmetics. Food manufacturers have until January 15, 2027, to comply with the new regulation, while drug manufacturers have until 2028.
Commonly found in popular products such as candies, gum, and processed foods, Red Dye No. 3 has long been criticized for its health risks, particularly for children. Despite the FDA acknowledging that human studies don’t show the same risks observed in animal tests, the dye’s removal was prompted by advocacy from groups like the Center for Science in the Public Interest and several state-level bans, including California’s.
The FDA’s action is backed by the Delaney Clause, which prevents the approval of additives linked to cancer. While some manufacturers, like Peeps, had already begun phasing out the dye, the move is expected to spur broader changes in the food industry. Critics argue this decision was delayed despite years of evidence and public concern.
The ban has been met with mixed reactions. Food safety advocates praise it as overdue, while industry representatives, such as the National Confectioners Association, emphasize the importance of regulatory consistency to ensure safety and consumer confidence.
