Red Dye No. 3: What Parents and Caregivers Need to Know
Humans are attracted to foods that are vibrant in color. The bright red color synonymous with popsicles, candy, cereal, and even some medications like cough syrup and gummy vitamins has been banned by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Many parents worry about what past use of products containing red dye No. 3 means to their family. Find out in this blog.
Although red dye number (No.) 3 has been banned from cosmetics for around 30 years, it continues to be used in many popular food products. A petroleum-based product, the synthetic dye, was recently banned because high doses can cause cancer in animals. While there is no human data connecting this artificial dye to cancer in humans, it is banned nonetheless.
There is no nutritional benefit to red dye No. 3. It doesn’t improve food’s flavor or change the food’s texture. Its sole purpose is to make foods more appetizing. Food manufacturers have until 2027 to reformulate their products. In the meantime, parents and caregivers must read the labels and avoid any products containing the banned ingredient.
Why be Concerned About Red Dye No. 3?
Parents and caregivers should be concerned about the risk of cancer. Several studies have found that some synthetic food dyes, such as red dye No. 3, can cause hyperactivity, inattentiveness, restlessness, and other behavioral issues in children. According to the FDA, children ages 2 through 5 consume twice as much of this synthetic dye as other age groups.
How to Identify Red Dye No 3:
Erythrosine is often listed on product packaging as FD&C Red No. 3. It may also be listed as an inactive ingredient in medicines. To avoid this, opt for dye-free versions of medicines and avoid candy and other bright red products.
According to the Environmental Working Group, over 2,900 food products contain it. You can view them here. Many of the products kids (and adults) will enjoy this Valentine’s Day contain red dye No. 3.
Should You be Concerned About Other Synthetic Dyes?
In short, yes. Other synthetic dyes, such as FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 5, and FD&C Yellow No. 6, have been shown to have neurobehavioral effects. Therefore, synthetic dyes should be avoided or minimized, especially in small children, who are most susceptible to their effects due to their small body weight.
Protect your family by reading food labels and avoiding synthetic dyes. If you have questions about anything in this blog post, contact our office or schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatric provider.