FDA Eyes Ban on Controversial Red Dye Found in Popular Candies and Drinks
By Jake Beardslee ·
January 2, 2025
The FDA is nearing a decision on the future of red dye No. 3, a cherry-red additive widely used in candy, snacks, and drinks. Advocacy groups and scientists cite studies linking it to cancer in animals, pushing for its removal from food products. This decision could reshape food safety regulations and has sparked debates among lawmakers, consumer advocates, and industry representatives. PD-US / Michelle Tribe / Wikimedia
Red dye No. 3 has been approved for food use for over 50 years but was banned in cosmetics in 1990 due to studies showing it caused cancer in rats. The FDA intended to ban it in food but never followed through. Officials now argue that evidence of harm to humans is inconclusive, even as animal studies raise concerns. "Although there may be cancer evidence in animals, there is also evidence that it is not harmful to humans," said Jim Jones, FDA deputy commissioner for human foods. PD-US / Wikimedia
Advocacy groups demand a ban, citing federal laws requiring the removal of additives linked to cancer. "The law is very clear," said Melanie Benesh of the Environmental Working Group. "If there’s any evidence of cancer in animals or humans, the FDA is required to ban it," according to The Washington Post. The Center for Science in the Public Interest has also called for action, submitting a petition to the FDA in 2022. Evan-Amos / Wikimedia
Lawmakers have joined the push. Sen. Tommy Tuberville questioned the FDA during a recent hearing, while Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. criticized the additive’s presence in common foods, stating, "There is simply no reason for this chemical to be in our food except to entice and mislead consumers." Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK
California’s new law bans red dye No. 3 and other additives by 2027, prompting manufacturers to begin reformulating products. Peeps candy and PediaSure nutritional shakes are among the items already adjusted. "They can see the writing on the wall," said Jensen Jose of the Center for Science in the Public Interest. Meanwhile, the International Association of Color Manufacturers argues the dye is safe and warns that a ban could increase costs for consumers. Shanwei Jiang / Wikimedia
The controversy highlights concerns about the FDA’s regulatory framework. Critics claim the agency’s processes are too slow to adapt to new evidence and public health priorities. To address this, the FDA launched a Human Foods Program with a focus on chemical safety. Commissioner Robert Califf has urged lawmakers to provide more funding, stating, "We have repeatedly asked for better funding for chemical safety." U.S. Food and Drug Administration
The decision on red dye No. 3 comes as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a critic of artificial dyes, is set to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. His stance could influence future food safety policies. Gage Skidmore / Wikimedia
This debate reflects growing consumer demand for natural alternatives and transparency in food production. Whether through federal action, state legislation, or industry initiatives, the outcome could redefine how artificial additives are regulated in the United States. Min An / Pexels
