The vibrant red hue in some of your favorite candies and treats might soon disappear as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a ban on Red Dye No. 3 in food products. This decision comes in response to growing concerns about the health implications of artificial food dyes, particularly Red Dye No. 3, which has been linked to potential health risks. This article delves into the details of the FDA’s ban, what it means for consumers, and which products are likely to be affected.
What is Red Dye No. 3 and Why is it Banned?
Red Dye No. 3, also known as erythrosine, is a synthetic color additive derived from petroleum, imparting a bright, cherry-red color to foods and beverages. While it has been used for decades to enhance the visual appeal of various products, concerns about its safety have been mounting. Notably, Red Dye No. 3 was already prohibited in cosmetics in 1990 due to evidence suggesting it could cause cancer in laboratory animals at high doses.
The recent FDA ban is a direct result of a color additive petition filed in 2022 by health advocates. These advocates raised concerns about studies linking Red Dye No. 3 to cancer and behavioral problems, especially in children. Although the FDA acknowledges that human exposure levels are typically lower than those in animal studies showing adverse effects, the ban reflects a precautionary approach to ensure food safety and public health.
Assortment of colorful candies, some possibly containing Red Dye No. 3.
Which Foods and Drinks Contain Red Dye No. 3?
Red Dye No. 3 is found in a surprising number of everyday food items, particularly those marketed towards children or those that aim for a visually appealing bright red or pink color. According to the Environmental Working Group, over 3,000 products may contain this dye. Some common categories and examples include:
-
Candies: This is perhaps the most prevalent category. Think of popular candies like Pez Assorted Fruit, Brach’s Candy Corn, Jelly Belly jelly beans, and Valentine’s Day treats such as Brach’s Conversation Hearts and Favorite Day Cupid gummy boxes.
-
Desserts and Baked Goods: Many desserts and snack items rely on Red Dye No. 3 for visual appeal. Examples include Entenmann’s Little Bites Party Cake Mini Muffins, Betty Crocker Fruit by the Foot, toaster pastries, and cookies with red icing or decorative elements.
-
Dairy and Frozen Treats: Ice cream, particularly strawberry and other fruit-flavored varieties, frozen yogurt, ice pops, and fruit bars can also contain Red Dye No. 3.
-
Processed Fruits: Maraschino cherries, a common cocktail and dessert garnish, are a well-known example. Some fruit cocktails might also use the dye to enhance their color.
-
Beverages: Strawberry-flavored milk, certain sodas, and fruit drinks can contain Red Dye No. 3 to achieve a vibrant color.
-
Medications: It’s not just food; some medications, including certain cough syrups, gummy vitamins, and even nutritional drinks like strawberry-flavored PediaSure, may also use Red Dye No. 3.
A Brief History of Food Dyes and Regulation
The use of food dyes is not a new phenomenon. While natural colorings have been used for centuries, the synthetic food dye era began in 1856 with chemist William Henry Perkin’s invention. Initially derived from coal processing byproducts, these synthetic dyes quickly became widespread in foods, drugs, and cosmetics by the early 1900s.
Recognizing potential dangers, the U.S. Congress passed the Food and Drugs Act in 1906 to regulate these additives. Further concerns arose in 1950 after incidents of children falling ill from orange Halloween candy colored with Orange No. 1. This led to congressional hearings spearheaded by Representative James Delaney, focusing on the carcinogenic potential of food additives.
In response, the FDA introduced “The Color Additive Amendments of 1960,” strengthening regulations and leading to the removal of several problematic color additives. Despite these regulations, concerns about certain dyes like Red Dye No. 3 have persisted, culminating in the current ban.
What’s Next and When Does the Ban Take Effect?
The FDA’s ban on Red Dye No. 3 signifies a growing emphasis on food safety and consumer health. While the FDA maintains that typical human exposure levels are lower than those in concerning animal studies, the decision aligns with bans already in place in the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand, reflecting a global trend towards caution regarding this particular dye.
Manufacturers using Red Dye No. 3 in food products have until January 15, 2027, to reformulate their products and remove the dye. For drug products containing Red Dye No. 3, the deadline is slightly later, January 18, 2028. This provides companies with a transition period to find alternative colorings and adjust their production processes.
For consumers, this ban means that while Valentine’s Day candies and other brightly colored treats might look slightly different in the coming years, it’s a step towards potentially safer food products. It also highlights the ongoing scrutiny of food additives and the importance of informed choices about the foods we consume.
Contributing sources: Samantha Neely, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida; Environmental Working Group; FDA Color Additive Petition; FDA History of Color Additives
