The FDA’s decision to ban Red Dye No. 3 has caused a stir in the food and beverage industry, but consumers shouldn’t expect to see an immediate change in their favorite products. Though the dye was banned due to concerns over its potential link to cancer in laboratory rats, the impact of the decision will be gradual.

In this article, we’ll explore which popular foods still contain Red Dye No. 3 and the alternatives manufacturers may turn to.

What Exactly is Red Dye No. 3?

Red Dye No. 3, also known as erythrosine, is a synthetic colorant derived from petroleum. It has been used for decades to give foods and candies a vibrant red hue, making them visually appealing. Despite its widespread use, concerns about its safety started to rise in the late 20th century, and the FDA eventually banned it in cosmetics in 1990. However, Red No. 3 remained authorized for use in food products until recent studies suggested a potential cancer risk in animals.

Why the Ban Was Imposed

The FDA’s decision to remove Red Dye No. 3 from the market follows findings from studies showing a possible link to cancer in laboratory rats. According to the FDA, the hormone-triggered mechanism that caused cancer in the rats does not occur in humans, and the amounts consumed by rats in these studies far exceed what humans would typically ingest. Nonetheless, the decision aligns with the Delaney Clause, a regulation preventing any food additive shown to induce cancer from being authorized.

Instagram | branchbasics | Red Dye No. 3, a petroleum-based color, gives foods and candies a bright red color.

Foods That Still Contain Red Dye

Despite its ban, many everyday foods still rely on Red Dye for their visual appeal. Here are nine examples:

1. Candy

Many candies, especially brightly colored ones like jelly beans and conversation hearts, owe their appearance to Red Dye. Products like Brach’s Classic Jelly Beans and Pez candies are notable examples.

2. Cakes and Cupcakes

Brightly frosted cakes and cupcakes often use this synthetic dye to create their vibrant colors. This includes both homemade and store-bought varieties.

3. Cookies

Festive cookies, particularly those made for holidays, often incorporate Red Dye in their icings and decorations to make them visually appealing.

4. Frozen Desserts

Ice cream and frozen treats, like Good Humor’s Strawberry Shortcake Frozen Dessert Bars, frequently use Red Dye to enhance their fruit-flavored appearances.

5. Frostings and Icings

Pre-packaged frostings and icings, especially red or pink shades, rely heavily on synthetic dyes for their bold colors.

6. Maraschino Cherries

Some brands of maraschino cherries use Red Dye to achieve their glossy, bright red look, which is popular for dessert garnishes and cocktails.

7. Processed Meats and Meat Substitutes

Certain processed meats, like hot dogs, and plant-based alternatives, such as MorningStar Farms Plant-Based Bacon Strips, also contain Red Dye to mimic natural colors.

8. Medications

It’s not just food — certain medications, like acetaminophen and gabapentin, list Red Dye as an ingredient for their coating.

9. Drinks

Some vibrant red beverages, like fruit punches and strawberry-flavored drinks, owe their striking color to Red Dye.

When Will the Change Happen?

Although the ban has been enforced, companies will have until 2027 or 2028 to completely phase out Red Dye No. 3 from their products. In the meantime, manufacturers are expected to slowly transition to alternative colorants.

Some companies are already moving quickly, with Keurig Dr Pepper planning to release a new formula for Yoo-hoo Strawberry Flavored Drink before the end of the year.