FDA considers banning controversial red food dye linked to health risks

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is contemplating banning Red 3, a synthetic food dye used in over 3,000 products, including popular snacks like Pez, Peeps, and Betty Crocker items.

Known chemically as erythrosine and derived from petroleum, Red 3 adds a bright cherry-red hue to foods but offers no nutritional value. Public health concerns surrounding the dye have mounted, citing its potential links to cancer and behavioural issues in children.

Speaking before the Senate Health Committee on Thursday, Jim Jones, FDA's deputy commissioner for human foods, confirmed, “With Red 3, we have a petition in front of us to revoke the authorisation board, and we’re hopeful that in the next few weeks, we’ll be acting on that petition.”

The move follows California’s decision last year to ban four food dyes, including Red 3, and comes amidst increasing pressure to align US regulations with stricter European Union standards.

Concerns about health risks
Red 3 has been banned from cosmetics since 1990 due to its carcinogenic effects in animal tests, a decision made under the 1960 Delaney Clause, which prohibits deeming a colour additive safe if it causes cancer in humans or animals. Despite this, the dye remains authorised in food.

“There is simply no reason for this chemical to be in our food except to entice and mislead consumers by changing the colour of their food so it looks more appealing,” said Frank Pallone Jr, a Democrat and ranking member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, in a letter to the FDA, reported The Guardian.

While the FDA insists its approved dyes are safe when consumed as directed, studies highlight concerning impacts.

A 2021 California review linked synthetic food dyes to hyperactivity and neurobehavioral problems in children, revealing sensitivity varies among individuals. “The evidence now shows pretty conclusively that when some kids eat these, they will experience nervous system effects that look like ADHD,” said Thomas Galligan, principal scientist at the Center for Science in the Public Interest, as per NBC News.

Growing push for change
Robert F Kennedy Jr, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for health secretary, criticised the FDA’s laxity, stating: “There are some departments such as the nutrition departments in the FDA that have to go, that are not doing their job, they are not protecting our kids.”

European countries already require warning labels or ban certain dyes altogether, employing a precautionary approach to consumer safety.

The FDA’s impending decision could set a significant precedent, influencing how the US addresses other synthetic additives in the food supply.

Pallone added: “With the holiday season in full swing where sweet treats are abundant, it is frightening that this chemical remains hidden in these foods that we and our children are eating.”