The FDA has banned Red Dye No. 3 from use in food products in the United States due to concerns over its potential link to cancer.
Red Dye No. 3 is being phased out of food products, with a full ban expected by January 2027. The drug industry has a longer phase-out period, until January 2028.
Despite the ban, some products still contain Red Dye No. 3, primarily in processed foods and sweets. Popular examples include candy, cake mixes, maraschino cherries, and certain cosmetic products.
Red Dye No. 3 has been linked to cancer in animal studies, which led to its ban for food products. However, it continues to be used in some cases where it is deemed necessary for coloring.
Some companies have moved to natural alternatives like beet juice, paprika, or other plant-based dyes. However, synthetic dyes remain cheaper and more stable in some products.
While the ban is progressing, many processed foods, especially in the snack and dessert categories, still contain artificial food dyes, and awareness about alternatives is growing slowly.
o avoid Red Dye No. 3, consumers should check ingredient labels carefully. Terms like "erythrosine" or "Red 3" indicate the presence of the banned dye.