Get ready to say goodbye to a controversial food additive. Red Dye 3, the vibrant, cherry-pink coloring we’ve all encountered in snacks, sweet drinks, and even medicines, is officially getting the boot from the FDA.
While this may seem like a small change, this move is part of a growing movement toward removing toxins from our food and moving towards healthier, more natural choices.
Whether you’re a label-reading pro or clean-eating curious, we’ve gathered the info so you can delve into what this Red Dye 3 ban means and what could be hiding in your pantry.
What is Red Dye 3?
Red Dye 3, also known as erythrosine, is a synthetic cherry-pink coloring agent made from coal tar. It has been widely used in foods, medications, and cosmetics to create vibrant red and pink hues. Despite its bright and attractive color, Red Dye 3 has long been controversial as a potential health hazard for causing cancer and potential behavioral issues for children.
Studies dating back to the 1980s, conducted by the National Toxicology Program, linked the dye to thyroid tumors in laboratory animals, prompting the FDA to ban its use in cosmetics in 1990.
The dye, however, continued to be openly used in popular foods and drugs until the new ban in January 2025. Producers now have until January 2027 to remove all traces of the dye and find substitutes for their products.
Where is it found?
Red Dye 3 is currently used in many versions of the following products, so be sure to read your labels before buying.
Foods
Maraschino cherries
Candy canes
Gummy bears
Red licorice
Fruit snacks
Gelatin desserts (cherry or strawberry-flavored Jell-O)
Frosted cakes and cupcakes
Ice pops
Chewing gum
Red frosting or icing
Colored breakfast cereals
Syrups for pancakes or shaved ice (strawberry or cherry flavors)
Energy drinks
Powdered drink mixes (Kool-Aid)
Red-hued baked goods (strawberry pastries)
Drugs
Children’s liquid medicines (cough syrup or fever reducers)
Chewable vitamins
Throat lozenges
Antacids (chewable or liquid red-flavored varieties)
Where is it already banned?
Several countries have already banned Red Dye 3 or placed stricter regulations on artificial dyes due to health concerns:
European Union: Red Dye 3 is banned under stricter food additive regulations.
Australia and Japan: These countries restrict or prohibit using Red Dye 3 in food due to its association with cancer in animal studies.
Canada: While not outright banned, its use is heavily restricted.
What to look for on food labels
It’s hard enough to keep track of what we’re putting into our bodies with so many hidden ingredients. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the snack aisle and avoid harmful ingredients like Red Dye 3 and other synthetic additives.
Look for:
Specific Names or Codes: Red Dye 3 may be listed as FD&C Red No. 3 or E127 (internationally). Be wary of similar dyes such as Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6.
Generic Terms: Look for phrases like “Artificial Colors” or “Color Added.” These often indicate synthetic dyes.
Natural Alternatives: Seek products using natural coloring agents like beet juice, turmeric, spirulina, or paprika extract.
Certification Labels: Choose foods labeled as “No Artificial Colors” or “All Natural Ingredients.”
Minimize Processed Foods: Synthetic dyes are most common in candies, snacks, sugary cereals, and brightly colored beverages.
Other dyes/preservatives (hopefully) on the chopping block
The FDA’s decision to ban Red Dye 3 reflects a broader movement to reevaluate synthetic additives. Here are some other controversial ingredients that may face restrictions in the near future:
Dyes
Red 40 (Allura Red AC): Linked to hyperactivity in children and potential carcinogenic effects
Yellow 5 (Tartrazine): Associated with allergic reactions and hyperactivity
Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow): May increase cancer risk and cause hypersensitivity
Preservatives
Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO): Used in citrus drinks; linked to thyroid dysfunction and neurological issues
Potassium Bromate: A dough conditioner in bread; classified as a possible carcinogen
Propylparaben: A preservative in packaged foods; suspected to disrupt hormones
Hello, health and happiness!
The ban on Red Dye 3 marks the start of what we hope will be a larger shift toward safer, more transparent food and drug manufacturing.
In the meantime, stay informed, read labels, and opt for natural alternatives as best as you can to reduce exposure to potentially toxic additives. As awareness grows, we may see more synthetic dyes and preservatives phased out in favor of healthier options.
Hopefully, this means that we will still be able to enjoy our favorite snacks, but made a whole lot better – and that’s a win for everyone at the table.
