The FDA Finally Bans Red Dye No. 3—Here’s Why It Matters

Red Dye No. 3 has been used to give food, drinks, and medicine a bright red color for decades. But here’s the scary part: studies as far back as the 1980s showed it could cause cancer in animals. The FDA banned it from cosmetics in 1990, but somehow it stayed in food and drugs until now.

What Is Red Dye No. 3 Found In?

This dye is in a lot of everyday products, including:

• Candies like gummies, jelly beans, and licorice

• Frostings and packaged baked goods

• Snacks like chewing gum

• Desserts like gelatin, puddings, and ice cream

• Fruit punches, sports drinks, and powdered drink mixes

• Maraschino cherries

• Some medications

  
  
  

  

  

  

  

  
  
  

Why Is It Being Banned?

Back in the 1980s, scientists found that Red Dye No. 3 caused thyroid tumors in male rats. Because of this, the FDA banned it from being used in makeup and lotions in 1990. But it was still allowed in food, drinks, and medicines, which didn’t make much sense.

Finally, after years of pressure from health groups, the FDA is banning Red 3 in all foods and ingested drugs. Companies have until 2027 (for food) and 2028 (for drugs) to remove it from their products.

Why Does This Matter?

This ban highlights how important it is to know what’s in our food. If something proven to be harmful stayed on shelves for over 30 years, what else might still be out there?

At The Woods Hub, we’re all about clean, honest food. We connect you with local farmers who grow real food—free from synthetic dyes and hidden chemicals.

What Can You Do?

• Read food labels carefully

• Support brands and businesses that focus on transparency and clean ingredients

• Shop local to know where your food comes from

  
  

This ban is a big step forward, but it’s also a reminder to stay informed about what we’re eating.

What do you think about the ban? Are you surprised it took this long? Let us know in the comments!

Useful Sources: 1,2, 3