The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a ban on the use of Red 3 dye in foods, giving manufacturers until January 2027 to reformulate their products. The decision follows studies linking the additive to cancer in laboratory rats, prompting the agency to act as a 'matter of law'.
Red 3, which has been used for decades to give a cherry-red hue to candies, sodas, and other items, was already banned in cosmetics three decades ago. The dye is prohibited in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, with only limited exceptions for maraschino cherries.
Products affected include Fruit by the Foot, Trolli sour candies, Funfetti cake mix, and Ring Pops, as well as various ice creams and frozen desserts. The Environmental Working Group has compiled a list of consumer goods containing the dye.
While the FDA downplayed risks to humans, noting a lack of conclusive evidence linking Red 3 to cancer in people, studies have associated it with thyroid tumors in rats and potential behavioural issues in children. Some experts worry manufacturers may switch to Red 40, which also raises health concerns.
The ban comes ahead of Senate confirmation hearings for Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a vocal critic of food dyes, who has been nominated to lead the FDA.
