FDA Considering Ban on Red Dye 3

The FDA is on the verge of potentially banning Red No. 3, a synthetic food dye derived from petroleum, following a petition that highlighted its potential health risks, particularly for children. Jim Jones, the FDA’s deputy commissioner for human foods, indicated that a decision could be made in the coming weeks during a Senate meeting. Red No. 3 has been linked to carcinogenic effects in lab animals and has been prohibited in cosmetics since 1990, yet remains widely used in food products, including popular candies and snacks. Public health advocates, including Rep. Frank Pallone, have urged the FDA to act urgently, especially with the holiday season approaching. This move comes as California has already banned the dye along with other harmful additives, raising questions about the regulatory landscape for food safety in the U.S. Additionally, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has criticized the FDA for its handling of food dyes, asserting they pose health risks to consumers.