Red dye number 3 has been banned by the FDA following concerns about its safety. The decision was made due to the Delaney clause, which prohibits food additives causing cancer in humans or animals. However, a 1980s study on rats found that even at high levels, red dye didn’t significantly increase thyroid tumors—a common cancer risk factor.
Another additive with similar issues is Ozempic, yet it isn’t banned. Concerns about hyperactivity in children are unsubstantiated when based on studies without statistical significance or standardized evaluations. Teachers generally don’t see meaningful changes, suggesting the dye may not harm kids as feared.
While candy corn and sugary snacks seem trivial risks, real threats to health include excess weight gain over 15 years increasing cancer risk by 40%. The FDA’s delayed action on red dye raises questions about safety oversight. However, there are bigger health concerns—like obesity—that require attention rather than additive restrictions.
Liberty Vittert is a professor of data science and statistician at Washington University in St. Louis, known for her expertise in data-driven journalism.
Source: https://thehill.com/opinion/healthcare/5105035-red-dye-number-3-banned