FDA bans use of red dye No. 3 in food

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is banning the use of red dye No. 3 in food, beverages and medicines, the agency announced Wednesday. The dye, which the FDA says gives some candies, cakes and frostings a “bright cherry red color,” was found to cause cancer in male rats.

Under the Delaney Clause of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act), the FDA must ban foods that cause cancer in humans or animals. However, the FDA notes that studies involving other animals and humans “have not shown these effects,” adding that claims indicating the presence of red dye #3 in humans “are not supported by the evidence.” scientific information available.

The FDA’s decision to ban red dye No. 3 comes just days before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s pick for secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, has considered taking action against food coloring and other potentially harmful additives.