The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a ban on the use of Red No. 3 food dye in consumer products due to health concerns. The ban affects thousands of products, including candy, desserts, frosting, cookies, snacks, and medications. Red No. 3 was already banned from cosmetics over 30 years ago.
The FDA’s decision could impact Valentine’s Day products, as several brands that contain the dye include Brach’s candy corn, conversation hearts, and Ring Pops. Other products with Red No. 3 include ice cream, popsicles, cupcakes, cookies, and imitation bacon bits.
Companies have up to three years to reformulate their products, according to the FDA. A list compiled by the Environmental Working Group found over 2,000 US products containing Red No. 3 in recent years. The ban aims to protect consumer health and ensure safer food and product options.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/01/15/red-dye-3-fda-ban-which-foods/77718204007