Red Dye No. 3 Banned

Red dye No. 3 has been making many headlines after the FDA announced its ban in food and ingested drugs. This decision stems from scientific findings linking the dye to health risks in animal studies, although these risks are not thought to translate to humans necessarily. Still, this step prioritizes the safety of our food. Understandably, it’s raised a lot of questions, and many of you in the PDT community have reached out, wondering what this means.

When news like this breaks, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the whirlwind of opinions. Misinformation and extreme takes can make it even harder to sort through what’s true and what’s exaggerated. But this ban is actually an example of our regulatory system doing what it's supposed to: reviewing evidence, listening to advocacy groups, and making decisions with public safety in mind.

In this situation, it’s helpful to pause, take a step back, and rely on trusted, evidence-based sources. Getting a clear picture of the why, the how, and what this means for your family can make this news feel a little less overwhelming.

More about the Red dye no. 3 ban

The FDA’s decision to ban Red Dye No. 3 stems from studies showing that high doses of the dye caused thyroid tumors in male rats. This evidence triggered action under the Delaney Clause, a legal regulation that prohibits the use of additives in food if they are shown to cause cancer in animals or humans, regardless of the exposure level.

It’s important to note that the doses used in these studies were much higher than what humans are typically exposed to through food. Additionally, it's clarified that the way the dye causes cancer in male rats (a specific hormonal mechanism) does not occur in humans. Claims that red dye no. 3 directly harms humans are not supported by scientific evidence. Regulatory agencies, including the FDA, agree that the mechanism behind the cancer findings in rats likely does not apply to humans.

This ban is not based on evidence of direct harm to humans but rather reflects a precautionary approach. It’s a proactive step to ensure safety and to address concerns raised by advocacy groups like the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), which petitioned for the ban in 2022.

You might be wondering, if red dye no. 3 was linked to cancer in animal studies, why wasn’t it banned sooner? While it might feel frustratingly slow, this process is designed to weigh the evidence carefully, prioritize public safety, and ensure decisions are based on sound science– not fear or reactionary measures. It’s a reminder that change often takes time but is guided by advocacy and evidence.

What does this mean for my family?

For many parents, the big question is how this ban will impact their day-to-day lives. The good news? It’s likely to have a minimal effect on most families.

Red dye no. 3 is used less often than other dyes like Red dye 40. While it’s found in products like maraschino cherries, certain candies, and some medications, many manufacturers have already been moving toward alternatives. Most products affected by this ban will likely reformulate with different dyes, such as red 40, which is approved for use and generally considered safe.

It’s also worth noting that this ban doesn’t mean the dye is immediately gone. Food manufacturers have until 2027, and drug manufacturers have until 2028 to comply. You’ll still see products containing red dye no. 3 on the shelves for a while.

Ultimately, this decision is a step toward improving the transparency and safety of the food supply. While it’s not expected to drastically change what’s available, it serves as a reminder of the importance of informed choices when it comes to what we feed our families.

Debunking some of the spreading misinformation

Whenever news like this breaks, it’s inevitable that misinformation and extreme opinions will start circulating. Some might claim that red dye no. 3 is toxic and a major health threat, while others may dismiss the ban as unnecessary. You’ll also likely see comments tying this decision to the “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) movement, but it’s important to separate the facts from the noise.

The ban wasn’t part of a wellness trend or a reaction to fear. Instead, it reflects how the regulatory process works when evidence, advocacy, and public safety laws come together. This is reassuring. Scientific findings were reviewed, advocacy groups petitioned the FDA, and a decision was made under the Delaney Clause.

Here are a few important clarifications:

• Cancer risk: The studies that prompted the ban involved extremely high doses of the dye in animal testing. As with many things – the dose is the poison. These levels are far beyond what humans consume in food, and the mechanism causing cancer in rats is unlikely to apply to humans. The ban is precautionary, not a response to proven harm in humans.

• Behavioral concerns: some concerns about artificial dyes, such as red dye 40, cause ADHD. While some studies suggest that food dyes may contribute to hyperactivity in sensitive children, the evidence is not definitive. Reactions vary widely, and behavioral changes are not solely linked to food dyes.

When in doubt, focus on trusted, evidence-based sources and avoid falling into the trap of fear-mongering or oversimplified claims. A few trusted accounts with credentials include: @drjessicaknurick, @foodsciencebabe, and @unbiasedscipod.

Final thoughts as a pediatrician and mom

The FDA’s ban is not a reason to panic– it’s an opportunity to celebrate the regulatory process working as intended. It also encourages manufacturers to prioritize more natural ingredients. While this dye likely poses little risk to humans, removing it from the food supply is a step toward more transparent food manufacturing with higher standards.

While this ban may feel like a big change, it’s important to remember that most families won’t see significant change in their day-to-day lives. As mentioned, it’s likely many manufacturers will switch to Red 40, so you can decide if that’s something you're comfortable with. This PedsDocTalk YouTube video dives into red 40, including the facts, fiction, and safe consumption levels.

If you’re looking to make small adjustments, start by reading labels. Familiarize yourself with common dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1, and look for natural alternatives when available. At the same time, keep perspective– an occasional treat with artificial dyes isn’t likely to cause harm. The goal is to focus on mindful choices for your family.

On The PDT Podcast

There has been a growing shift of young male voters towards right-wing politics, driven by feelings of alienation from progressive narratives that often overlook and dismiss their struggles. The right has capitalized on this by promoting hyper-masculine ideals that resonate with this demographic.

This week, I welcome back Ruth Whippman, author of the book Boy Mom, to discuss how to foster emotional connections, have open dialogue and reimagine boyhood to help boys develop healthier and more inclusive identities.

She joins me to discuss:

• The noticeable shift of young male voters towards right-wing politics

• How the left has struggled to effectively communicate a positive and inclusive narrative for boys and men

• That messages celebrating hyper-masculinity have resonated with young men, filling in a gap left by progressive movements

On The PDT YouTube

This video teaches how to recognize and treat dehydration in children, from mild to severe symptoms. It includes key signs to watch for, practical rehydration tips, and when to seek medical attention. The video includes:

• What is dehydration?

• Mild dehydration

• Moderate dehydration

• Signs of severe dehydration

• What do I do if my child is dehydrated?

• What if my child won’t eat or drink?

• When should I seek medical attention for dehydration?

• How to prevent dehydration?

Ask Dr. Mona

An opportunity for YOU to ask Dr. Mona your parenting questions!

Dr. Mona will answer these questions in a future Sunday Morning Q&A email. Chances are if you have a parenting concern or question, another parent can relate. So let's figure this out together!