The U.S. has banned the use of Red Dye No. 3 (also known as Red No. 3 or erythrosine) in food, candy, and medicine due to studies linking it to cancer in laboratory rats. The FDA announced the ban in January 2025, with manufacturers required to remove it from food products by January 2027 and from pharmaceuticals by January 2028
. In addition to Red No. 3, the FDA plans to phase out eight synthetic food dyes derived from petroleum over the coming months. These include:
- Red No. 40 (Allura Red)
- Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine)
- Yellow No. 6 (Sunset Yellow)
- Blue No. 1
- Blue No. 2
- Green No. 3
- Citrus Red No. 2
- Orange B
Some of these dyes have been linked to cancer or tumors in animal studies, and others are associated with neurobehavioral problems in children, such as irritability and sleep disturbances
. Several states have also enacted bans or restrictions on synthetic dyes in foods served in schools and other settings, reflecting growing concern over their health effects
. In summary, Red No. 3 is officially banned, and the FDA is moving to ban or phase out several other synthetic dyes due to health concerns, especially related to cancer risks and behavioral effects in children
