FDA Bans Red 3 Dye in Food Products Amid Growing Push to Eliminate Synthetic Colourants

In January, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) made the decision to ban the dye Red 3, also known as erythrosine, from being used in food products. This includes candies, cough syrup, baked goods, and frozen treats. The FDA’s move came after studies revealed that Red 3 caused cancer in lab rats. Under federal law, the FDA is required to remove any substance found to be cancer-causing in animals. While the agency clarified that the cancerous effects observed in rats don’t necessarily apply to humans, they still took action. However, Red 3 is just one of many artificial dyes commonly found in various foods and products. As experts and consumers raise concerns about these additives, here’s what you need to know.
Synthetic dyes are man-made chemicals derived from petroleum, which don’t naturally exist. These dyes are commonly used in food products to improve their appearance, as noted by Sensient Food Colours, a company based in St. Louis that supplies food colours and flavours.
In the U.S., nine synthetic dyes, including Red 3, are approved for use in food. Other frequently used colorants include Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6. Two dyes, Citrus Red 2 and Orange B, are permitted but are less commonly used.
The FDA is responsible for certifying these synthetic colour additives and overseeing their regulation. Following a recent ruling on Red 3, manufacturers have until January 2027 to eliminate the dye from their products, while those producing ingestible medicines like cough syrup have until January 2028 to comply.
Momentum is growing to eliminate synthetic dyes in food products. Last year, California became the first state to ban six artificial food dyes in foods served in public schools. This year, over a dozen state legislatures may introduce bills to ban these dyes, either in school lunches or across all settings. In October, protesters rallied for WK Kellogg Co. to remove artificial dyes from cereals like Apple Jacks and Froot Loops.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who was recently confirmed as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, ran on a platform of “Making America Healthy Again,” which includes addressing artificial dyes and other chemicals in food. His position has gained support from “MAHA moms,” a group of women on social media advocating for the removal of artificial ingredients and ultra-processed foods in the U.S. food system, among other issues.
“I was labeled a conspiracy theorist when I said red dye caused cancer,” Kennedy remarked during his confirmation hearing. “Now, the FDA has acknowledged this and banned it.”
Because the dyes are so widely used, it can be difficult to find foods that don’t contain colour additives. The best to way to avoid the dyes is to read ingredient labels, said Arnold. “If the list is so long that you don’t want bother reading it and it probably has things in it you can’t pronounce, don’t buy it,” he said.