Learn how to spot Red 3 dye in your favorite foods and drinks by checking ingredient labels for safety.
Washington: The FDA is stepping in to ban Red 3 dye from food and drinks in the U.S. This dye has been linked to cancer in rats, so it’s been off-limits for cosmetics and non-oral meds for years. But it still popped up in many snacks and grocery items.
Consumer advocates are keeping an eye on companies that still use this dye. Many brands are switching to safer alternatives. So, it’s super important for shoppers to check labels for Red 3, also known as erythrosine or FD&C Red No. 3.
You’ll find Red 3 in a few product categories. For instance, some candies like Brach’s Conversation Hearts and Candy Corn have it. But others, like Swedish Fish, use Red 40 instead.
When it comes to baked goods, look out for red icing. Betty Crocker’s Red Decorating Icing has Red 3, while Pillsbury’s Funfetti frosting uses Red 40.
In dairy and frozen treats, you might spot Red 3 in strawberry milk and ice cream. For example, TruMoo Strawberry Whole Milk contains it, but Edy’s Strawberry Ice Cream opts for beet juice instead.
Some fruit products, like Kroger’s Extra Cherry canned fruit cocktail, still use Red 3, while many maraschino cherries have switched to Red 40.
Lastly, check your drinks. Ensure Original Strawberry Nutrition Shake has Red 3, but many others, like Kool-Aid and Hawaiian Punch, use Red 40.
Even some gummy vitamins and medications might contain Red 3. But many brands are moving to natural colors or different dyes, like Vicks and Mucinex, which use Red 40.
