The Food and Drug Administration has made the decision to prohibit the use of Red No. 3, a dye used to provide a vibrant cherry-red hue to food and beverages.

On Wednesday, the FDA revealed that it has revised its regulations regarding color additives, disallowing the use of artificial Red No. 3 in food and medications meant to be consumed. This decision comes after advocates submitted a petition in 2022, arguing that the dye may be associated with cancer and behavioral issues in children.

Food manufacturers have until January 15, 2027, to eliminate Red No. 3 from their products, while drug manufacturers will have until January 18, 2028, to comply, as stated by the FDA. Additionally, any food products imported into the U.S. must adhere to these new regulations.

Here’s what you need to know about Red No. 3 and its alleged effects.

What is Red No. 3?

Red No. 3, or erythrosine, is a synthetic color additive derived from petroleum that imparts a bright cherry-red tint to various food and drinks. The FDA’s announcement indicated that the dye is frequently found in candies, cakes, cupcakes, frozen desserts, frostings, and some medications. According to the Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit organization focused on environmental and public health, over 3,000 products include Red No. 3.

The use of Red No. 3 in cosmetics was prohibited in the U.S. in 1990 due to findings suggesting it could cause cancer in high doses in laboratory rats. Nevertheless, it continued to be one of nine synthetic dyes permitted in food items. The other approved dyes include Blue No. 1, Blue No. 2, Green No. 3, Orange B, Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Citrus Red, all of which contribute vibrant colors to foods, beverages, and medications.

Reasons behind the FDA’s ban on Red No. 3

The petition lodged in 2022 referenced two studies indicating that exposure to high levels of Red No. 3 resulted in cancer in male lab rats. However, the FDA clarified that the mechanism causing cancer in these rats does not translate to humans, who are generally exposed to much lower concentrations of Red No. 3. Furthermore, studies on other animals and humans did not show similar adverse effects.

Federal ban follows California’s initiative

In 2023, California became the first state to outlaw the production, sale, or distribution of four food additives, including Red No. 3.

Additionally, in a separate act approved in 2024, California planned to prohibit six out of nine FDA-sanctioned artificial food dyes in public school food and beverages by 2027, though Red No. 3 was not included in this bill.

Since then, other states like Illinois and New York have introduced similar legislation targeting food additives.

Over the past ten years, numerous proposals concerning Red No. 3 and other food dyes have been put forth in Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Washington, and West Virginia, according to the Environmental Working Group.

Is Red No. 3 banned in other regions?

Yes, Red No. 3 is predominantly banned in the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand.

Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at YSL News. Follow her on X and Instagram @gretalcross.