The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has officially banned the use of red dye No.3 after the knowledge that it can cause cancer in animals — a discovery found more than 30 years ago.
The synthetic additive, also known scientifically as erythrosine, is most commonly used to give foods and beverages a distinct, bright, cherry-red color and has been a key substance in America’s food system.
Manufacturers using Red No. 3 in goods and ingested drugs now have until January 15, 2027, and January 18, 2028, respectively, to reformulate their products, as stated by the FDA.
