The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the use of red dye 3 in food, drinks, and drugs. This move comes after decades of studies linking the substance to cancer in animals. While some are celebrating the news, others are expressing frustration over the delayed ban.
Red Dye 3 is a petroleum-based substance found in various products, including candies and soda, affecting over 2,800 items in US supermarkets. The FDA states that the dye can cause thyroid cancer in rats but claims it does not necessarily pose a risk to humans.
However, pressure from public figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. led to the agency’s action. As of January 15, 2027, all food products sold in the US must be free of Red Dye No. 3.
The online world has reacted with a mix of emotions, ranging from anger over delayed action to humor and memes. Social media platforms have become an outlet for people to cope with feelings of powerlessness, particularly when faced with decisions made by authorities.
The FDA ban serves as a prime example of how technology has reduced local control and increased reliance on external powers. Social media offers an alternative way for individuals to exert control by connecting with others and sharing their experiences.
Humor plays a significant role in this coping mechanism, providing relief from anxiety and stress associated with complex issues like Red Dye 3. The creation of memes and jokes helps make the topic more approachable, turning a worry into a joke that becomes less concerning.
As people seek to regain control over situations they feel powerless about, social media becomes an essential tool for empowerment through shared experiences and humor.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/callumbooth/2025/01/16/red-dye-3-ban-annoys-the-entire-internet