A potential ban on a widely used red food dye could be imminent after years of warnings about its adverse health effects, particularly on children. The FDA has said it will take action to revoke the authorization for “red 3”, which is found in nearly 3,000 products, including Pez, Peeps, and Betty Crocker’s offerings.
Red 3, derived from petroleum, adds color to foods but provides no nutritional value, sparking concerns about its safety. Animal tests have linked it to cancer, and public health groups claim it causes behavioral problems in children. Last year, California banned four food dyes, including red 3, citing similar risks.
Critics, including Robert F Kennedy Jr, argue that the FDA’s approval of this dye is misguided, as it serves only to mislead consumers with color changes. With the holiday season approaching and sweet treats abundant, some lawmakers are worried about the presence of this chemical in popular foods. The FDA will soon act on a petition to revoke red 3’s authorization, a move that could bring an end to its use in US food products.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/dec/07/fda-moves-to-ban-red-food-dye