FDA Takes Bold Step: Bans Red No. 3 Dye Linked To Cancer

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially banned the use of Red No. 3, a synthetic dye commonly found in various food products and ingested drugs, due to its association with cancer in laboratory animals. This decision comes after years of advocacy from health groups and lawmakers, marking a significant shift in food safety regulations.
Key Takeaways
- The ban on Red No. 3 will take effect on January 15, 2027, for food products and on January 18, 2028, for ingested drugs.
- Red No. 3 has been linked to cancer in male rats, prompting the FDA to act under the Delaney Clause, which prohibits any additive found to cause cancer in humans or animals.
- The dye has been banned in cosmetics since 1990 but remained legal in food until now.
Background of Red No. 3
Red No. 3, also known as erythrosine, is a synthetic dye derived from petroleum. It has been used in food products since its approval in 1907, primarily to enhance the visual appeal of candies, cereals, and beverages. Despite its long history, concerns about its safety have persisted, especially regarding its potential carcinogenic effects.
The FDA’s Decision
The FDA’s decision to revoke the authorisation for Red No. 3 was influenced by a petition filed in 2022 by the Centre for Science in the Public Interest and other advocacy groups. They presented evidence from studies showing that high levels of the dye caused cancer in laboratory male rats. Although the FDA maintains that the mechanism of cancer development in rats does not apply to humans, the legal framework necessitated action due to the Delaney Clause.
Implications for Food Manufacturers
Food manufacturers will have until 2027 to reformulate their products to eliminate Red No. 3. This includes popular items such as candy corn, strawberry-flavoured drinks, and various baked goods. Companies producing ingested drugs will have an additional year to comply with the new regulations.
Public Reaction and Future Considerations
Consumer advocacy groups have hailed the ban as a victory for public health, emphasising the need for safer food additives. Many parents have already taken steps to avoid products containing Red No. 3, citing concerns about its effects on children’s behaviour and health. The FDA’s action is expected to encourage manufacturers to explore safer alternatives, which are already in use in other countries.
Conclusion
The FDA’s ban on Red No. 3 represents a significant step towards enhancing food safety standards in the United States. As the agency continues to review other food additives, this decision may pave the way for further regulatory changes aimed at protecting public health and ensuring safer food options for consumers.
Sources
- FDA Bans Red Dye 3 in Food | Food Safety, Food Safety Magazine.
- US bans red dye No. 3 from foods amid evidence it causes cancer, New York Post.
- FDA bans Red No. 3 dye in foods, drinks due to cancer link in rats – Boston 25 News, Boston 25 News.
- FDA bans Red No. 3, artificial coloring used in beverages, candy and other foods, NBC News.
- The FDA has banned Red No. 3, a synthetic dye used in candy, cereals, and Tylenol, Business Insider.
- FDA bans food additive Red No. 3 due to cancer risks, AOL.com.
- Red No. 3 Banned In U.S. Foods, Drugs—Here’s What To Know About The Dye, Forbes.
- FDA bans Red No. 3, artificial dye used in beverages, candy and other foods, AOL.com.
- Red No. 3 dye in foods banned by FDA for cancer risk, Alton Telegraph.
- FDA moves to ban Red 3, citing concern over cancer in some animals – CBS News, CBS News.
- FDA bans use of Red No. 3 dye in food, drinks, AOL.com.
- Red Dye No. 3 Banned From Foods, Newser.
- Red dye No. 3: FDA bans ingredient from food | CNN, CNN.
- FDA announces ban on red dye No. 3. Here’s what to expect — and why some families already avoid the food coloring., Yahoo.
- FDA bans red dye No. 3 from foods | AP News, AP News.
- US FDA to Ban Red Dye No. 3 RFK Went After Due to Cancer Link – Bloomberg, Bloomberg.
- US To Ban Red Dye No. 3 In Food As Soon As Wednesday: Sources – Bloomberg, StreetInsider.
- FDA bans red dye No. 3 from foods | Nation/World News | beloitdailynews.com, Beloit Daily News.
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