FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3, but Health Canada Takes a Different Path
In a significant move long sought by health advocates, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a ban on the use of Red Dye No. 3 in foods and ingestible drugs. This synthetic additive, widely used in candies, cakes, and other brightly coloured treats, has been linked to cancer in animal studies for over 30 years. While the decision marks progress for consumer safety in the U.S., Canada has taken a different stance, deeming the dye safe for human consumption despite similar evidence.
The FDA’s Decision
The FDA’s announcement follows a 2022 petition by scientists and over 20 public health organizations, which cited federal law prohibiting the use of carcinogenic additives in ingestible products. Red Dye No. 3, also known as erythrosine or FD&C Red No. 3, is used in over 2,800 food products, according to the Environmental Working Group. Though banned from cosmetics in 1990 due to links with thyroid cancer in male rats, the dye remained permissible in food until now.
Manufacturers have until January 2027 to reformulate food products, while drug makers face a January 2028 deadline. Despite the ban, the FDA maintains that typical human exposure levels are much lower than those causing cancer in laboratory animals. “Claims” of health risks to humans “are not supported by the available scientific information,” the agency stated.
Why Now?
California’s state-level ban, set to take effect in 2027, likely added pressure. California regulators highlighted studies showing children often consume levels of Red Dye No. 3 exceeding FDA’s acceptable limits. Health experts, including Tasha Stoiber of the Environmental Working Group, have expressed concern over the dye’s potential links to behavioural issues like ADHD and called for protective measures.
The National Confectioners Association, representing the candy industry, said it would comply with FDA standards, while some critics argue the agency’s action is decades overdue. As Rebecca Wolf of Food & Water Watch noted, “This move by the FDA is long overdue, but represents a step in the right direction.”
Canada’s Stance
While the U.S. ban reflects mounting concerns over animal studies linking the dye to cancer, Canada’s federal health regulator has decided to keep Red Dye No. 3 on shelves. Health Canada argues that evidence of human harm is insufficient and points to a 2018 review by a joint committee of the United Nations and World Health Organization, which found no safety concerns for the dye as a food additive.
Canadian scientists like McMaster University’s Waliul Khan disagree with this stance. Khan emphasizes the importance of heeding animal studies, advocating for warning labels on synthetic dyes and increased research funding. Similarly, McGill University’s Joe Schwarcz questions the necessity of synthetic dyes when natural alternatives, such as beet juice extract, exist.
“When there is emerging evidence that this is harmful — even in animals — why are we going to keep it in our food?” Khan asks.
Moving Forward: Valentine’s Day is coming. What Families Should Know
Whether in the U.S. or Canada, families can take proactive steps to reduce exposure to synthetic dyes:
- Check Labels: Look for Red Dye No. 3 or its aliases (“erythrosine,” “FD&C Red No. 3”) on ingredient lists.
- Opt for Natural Alternatives: Avoid all synthetic food dyes. For example, Red No. 40, (also known as “Allura Red”) is another synthetic dye linked to increased ADHD symptoms and behavioural issues in kids. So be sure to choose products coloured with natural substances like beet juice or berry extracts.
- Support Transparency: Advocate for clearer labeling and updated regulations on synthetic dyes. Contact your elected representatives.
As research continues to uncover potential risks, these choices can help protect children during critical developmental stages.
Sources: The New Lede and The Canadian Press
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