Imagine biting into a colorful candy or cereal, and then wondering if the vibrant hues are safe. Recently, the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took a big step by banning Red Dye No. 3, also known as erythrosine, from our food supply. This move came after studies showed the dye caused cancer in lab rats. The FDA had to act because of a federal law that requires them to ban any additive found to cause cancer in animals. However, they also pointed out that the way Red 3 causes cancer in rats doesn't apply to humans.

Red Dye No. 3 is just one of many synthetic colors used in our food. These dyes are made from petroleum-based chemicals and are used to make foods look more appealing. There are nine dyes approved for use in the U. S. These include Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6. Two others, Citrus Red 2 and Orange B, are used less often. The FDA is responsible for certifying and regulating these color additives.

Manufacturers have until January 2027 to remove Red 3 from their food products. For drugs like cough syrups, the deadline is January 2028. This ban has sparked a larger conversation about the safety of artificial colors in our food. Consumer advocates have long pushed for the ban of Red 3 due to its link to cancer in rats. The dye was already banned in cosmetics for decades, but not in food or medications.

Research has also shown that artificial colors can cause behavioral problems in some children, especially those at risk for ADHD. Dr. L. Eugene Arnold, a psychiatry professor at Ohio State University, has studied the effects of dyes on behavior. He advises CHADD, a support group for people with ADHD. He believes that while artificial colors aren't the main cause of ADHD, they can contribute to some cases.

The FDA has reviewed the effects of color additives on children's behavior. They believe most children don't have adverse effects from consuming them. However, they acknowledge that some children might be sensitive to these dyes. A recent poll showed that about two-thirds of Americans support restricting or reformulating processed foods to remove ingredients like added sugar or dyes.

The momentum to remove synthetic dyes from foods is growing. Last year, California became the first state to ban six artificial food dyes from food served in public schools. More states may follow suit this year. In October, protesters demanded that WK Kellogg Co. remove artificial dyes from cereals like Apple Jacks and Froot Loops.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. , the U. S. secretary of health and human services, has campaigned on a promise to "Make America Healthy Again. " His focus includes artificial dyes and other chemicals in food. His support has been boosted by "MAHA moms, " women on social media calling for an end to artificial ingredients and ultraprocessing in the U. S. food supply.

Natural colors are a possible alternative to synthetic dyes. Some manufacturers have already reformulated products to remove Red 3. They use beet juice, carmine (a dye made from insects), or pigments from foods like purple sweet potato, radish, and red cabbage. However, natural dyes can be less stable and may be affected by factors like heat and acid levels. Meghan Skidmore, a spokesperson for Sensient, a food color supplier, said, "It’s not impossible to replace, but there’s not a single solution. "

Avoiding synthetic dyes can be tricky because they are so widely used. The best way to avoid them is to read ingredient labels carefully. If the list is long and filled with unpronounceable ingredients, it's probably best to avoid that product.  There are many other natural ways to add color to food.  Many fruits and vegetables can be used to make food look colorful and delicious.

Unraveling the Rainbow: The Truth about Food Dyes

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