The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has imposed a ban on the use of Red Dye No. 3 in food and drug products. In an announcement made on Wednesday, the agency revealed that the red dye, commonly used to color certain candies, cakes, and other items, was found to cause cancer in male rats.
Food manufacturers in the U.S. have until January 15, 2027, to reformulate their products without Red Dye No. 3, while pharmaceutical companies have until January 18, 2028, to make the necessary changes.
This ban follows a similar restriction that was imposed on the use of the dye in cosmetics and topical medications 35 years ago. The state of California had already banned Red No. 3 in 2023, and the European Union, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand have also limited its use.
According to nutrition experts, Red Dye No. 3 is commonly used in the following products:
- Certain fruit cocktails
- Candy corns
- Protein shakes
- Ice pops
- Sausages
- Lollipops
- Puddings
- Vegetarian meats
- Bacon bits
- Strawberry milk
- Jellybeans
- Candies
- Colored beverages
- Strawberry ice cream bars
