Bala Bites (1/24/25): Red Dye #3

Bala Bites (1/24/25): Red Dye #3

Bye Bye Red Dye 3

This month, the FDA revoked its approval for Red Dye No. 3, a synthetic colorant found in everything from candies to medications.

A win for public health? 

Sure...but the reality is this ban is a glaring example of why trust in health agencies continues to erode. 

Let me explain.

First, Red Dye 3 has been restricted or outright banned in numerous countries for decades. 

Europe, Japan, Australia, and China have all acted sooner and more decisively, with stricter regulations or full prohibitions. 

Meanwhile, the FDA allowed it to remain in our food supply despite banning it from cosmetics 35 years ago due to cancer concerns.

Second, this dye isn’t just a superficial ingredient—it has been linked to serious health risks. 

Studies indicate it can disrupt thyroid hormones, increase oxidative stress that damages brain cells, and potentially weaken the immune system. 

Yet, American consumers have been exposed to it in popular products like Brach’s Candy Corn, Nesquik Strawberry Milk, maraschino cherries, and even gummy vitamins.

Why the delay? 

We can thank industry pressure as US health agencies are known to be highly susceptible to industry pushback. 

  • With the ban not effective until January 2027, here's what to do in the meantime. 
     
    Read labels and avoid products listing FD&C Red No. 3 or erythrosine
    Choose foods that rely on natural food dyes like those from berries or beets
    Favor whole, minimally processed foods

With red dye 3 on its way out, what will go in its place? 

Likely red dye 40, which has it's own set of controversies so you might as well screen your products for it.

Common foods with red dye 40 include candies like Skittles, M&M's, Gummy bears, and Jolly Ranchers. Drinks like Gatorade (red flavors). Snacks like Doritos (some varieties like Flamin' Hot). Cereals like Froot Loops and condiments like ketchup. 

Bottom line is the ban is good news but it's nothing to celebrate. 

The fact it took so long to ban red dye 3 shows everyone where our health agencies' real priorities are.

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