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The long-awaited ban on Red No. 3, a popular synthetic dye, has officially gone into effect in the U.S., marking a significant shift in the food industry. Initially used to give products their bright red hues, Red No. 3 has been linked to potential health risks, prompting the FDA’s decision to phase it out.
Red No. 3 is an artificial food coloring that helps achieve vibrant shades of red by absorbing light. Despite its widespread use, the dye was controversial due to studies conducted on rats showing possible long-term health risks. The FDA banned it for good in November 2023, but the transition period for affected products will continue until mid-2025.
As companies scramble to develop new formulas without Red No. 3, some are introducing natural alternatives like carmine (made from bugs), betacyanins found in beetroots, and anthocyanins derived from fruits and vegetables. These options aim to replicate the red color while maintaining safety standards.
The ban has sparked concern among food manufacturers about price increases as they switch to alternative dyes. However, some companies, like Keurig Dr Pepper, have already begun testing new formulas that no longer contain Red No. 3 for their Strawberry Flavored Drink, planning to release them before the end of the year.
In the meantime, other FDA-approved synthetic dyes, such as Blue No. 1 and Red No. 40, remain available, though they carry slightly different safety profiles. The FDA is exploring a post-market review system to ensure food additives stay safe over time.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing innovation with public health concerns in the food industry. As companies navigate this complex landscape, it will be interesting to see how Red No. 3’s ban impacts product availability and pricing in the coming years.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/health/9-foods-that-contain-the-now-banned-red-dye-no-3