The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is taking action to eliminate a controversial colorant, Red 3, from the foods and medicines consumed by Americans. Although Red 3, also known as erythrosine or FD&C Red No. 3, was banned from cosmetics and non-oral drugs decades ago due to a study linking it to cancer in rats, it remained approved for use in food and drink products until recently.
While consumer advocates have been vigilant in urging companies to remove Red 3 from their products, many manufacturers continue to use this artificial dye, despite its health concerns. Consumers are advised to carefully review product labels, as Red 3 can still be found in a variety of popular food items. As manufacturers switch to other coloring options, Red 3 is being replaced with less controversial alternatives.
Also Read – FDA Announces Ban on Red Dye 3, Artificial Coloring Found in Candy and Beverages
Here are some common categories where Red 3 may still appear in products:
Candy
Certain red-colored candies continue to contain Red 3. For example, Brach’s Conversation Hearts and Brach’s Candy Corn both list Red 3 among their ingredients. However, other candies, such as Swedish Fish and Wild Cherry Lifesavers, typically use Red 40 as their colorant.
Baked Goods and Snacks
Red 3 can often be found in baked goods and snacks, especially those with red icing or decorations. Betty Crocker’s Red Decorating Icing, for instance, contains the dye. In contrast, Pillsbury’s Funfetti Valentine’s Day Frosting, which features red heart sprinkles, uses Red 40.
Dairy and Frozen Treats
Consumers should also be on the lookout for Red 3 in dairy and frozen products like strawberry-flavored milk, ice cream, and popsicles. TruMoo Strawberry Whole Milk includes Red 3, but brands like Edy’s Strawberry Ice Cream and Popsicle’s fruit pops opt for natural colorings like beet juice.
Fruit Products
Many maraschino cherries, including store brands from Walmart and Kroger, have moved away from using Red 3 in favor of Red 40. However, Kroger’s Extra Cherry Canned Fruit Cocktail still contains the problematic dye.
Beverages
Red 3 can also be found in some drinks, such as Ensure Original Strawberry Nutrition Shake. However, most beverages, including Hawaiian Punch, Kool-Aid, Fanta strawberry soda, Jarritos strawberry soda, and Faygo black cherry soda, use Red 40 instead.
Also Read – Waffle and Pancake Mix Recall: 11 States Affected – Find Out if You’re at Risk
Medications
Some gummy vitamins and over-the-counter medications contain Red 3, though many have switched to other coloring agents. For instance, cough drops from Vicks, Luden’s, and Halls rely on Red 40, as do medications like Mucinex Children’s Cough Syrup and Vick’s NyQuil Cold and Flu.
As consumer awareness grows and manufacturers increasingly replace Red 3 with safer alternatives, it’s important for shoppers to stay informed. Always check the ingredient list to ensure the products you buy do not contain this controversial dye.
