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Red 3 Banned by FDA Over Cancer Risks

U.S. regulators made a significant move on Wednesday by banning Red 3, a dye commonly found in foods, over potential cancer risks. This decision comes almost 35 years after the same dye was prohibited from cosmetics due to safety concerns. Food and Drug Administration officials have granted a 2022 petition filed by two dozen food safety and health advocates, urging the agency to revoke authorization for Red 3, which provides a bright red hue to various food items like candies, snack cakes, and maraschino cherries.

What You Need to Know

The ban on Red 3 is a result of findings from studies indicating that the dye caused cancer in laboratory rats. The FDA cited the Delaney Clause, a statute requiring the agency to ban any additive known to cause cancer in humans or animals. The dye, also known as erythrosine, FD&C Red No. 3, or simply Red 3, has now been removed from the list of approved color additives in foods, dietary supplements, and oral medicines like cough syrups. This action will impact food manufacturers who have until January 2027 to eliminate Red 3 from their products, while makers of ingested drugs have until January 2028 to comply with the ban.

Implications and Response

While the ban aligns with safety concerns raised by advocates and regulatory bodies, it remains unclear if food manufacturers will challenge the decision legally. There is a lack of concrete evidence linking Red 3 to cancer in humans, leading to potential disputes over the ban. The International Association of Color Manufacturers has defended the dye, emphasizing its safety within typical human consumption levels. Some companies have already reformulated products to exclude Red 3, opting for alternatives like beet juice, carmine, and pigments from natural sources.

Foods Containing Red Dye No. 3

Thousands of food products contain Red 3, including candies, cakes, frozen desserts, frostings, beverages, and more. The Center for Science in the Public Interest highlights the prevalence of Red 3 in various food items, urging consumers to check labels for the dye’s presence. It is crucial to read food labels carefully as Red 3 may be listed as FD&C Red No. 3, FD&C Red 3, or simply Red 3. Additionally, some oral medications like pain relievers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants may also contain Red 3.

In conclusion, the FDA’s decision to ban Red 3 underscores ongoing efforts to prioritize consumer safety and address potential health risks associated with food additives. As the food industry adapts to these regulatory changes, consumers are encouraged to stay informed and make conscious choices about the products they consume.