The FDA has officially banned the use of FD&C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs, marking a significant win for consumer safety. This petroleum-based food dye has a long history of use in candies, cakes, frostings, and even medications. Here, we explore the reasons behind the ban, its implications, and the science surrounding this controversial colour additive.

Why Has the FDA Banned Red No. 3?

On January 15, 2025, the FDA released an announcement for the revocation of FD&C Red No. 3 under the Delaney Clause of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). The Delaney Clause, established in 1960, prohibits the FDA from authorizing any food or colour additive found to induce cancer in humans or animals.

This decision has been made due to multiple studies showing the additive to cause cancer in male rats. A petition was held in 2022 by a food safety advocacy group to cease its use in response to these findings.

The Red Paradox

You might think this recent ban stems from groundbreaking discoveries, right? The truth is, the controversy around Red No. 3 has been simmering for decades. Back in 1990, the FDA took action to ban its use in topical applications like cosmetics and externally applied drugs. Yet, somehow, it managed to hang on in food and ingested drugs—until now. This latest decision is the grand finale of years of pushback over growing concerns over its safety.

Other countries such as New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and the EU do not allow Red No. 3 in food. Even the state of California was ahead of the FDA, banning the sale of the dye in food and drinks in 2023.

The Importance of Fighting for Change

Ensuring the safety and transparency of ingredients in our food, drugs, and cosmetics is not just a regulatory duty—it’s a fundamental part of protecting public health. Every additive and ingredient we consume or apply plays a role in our overall well-being, and understanding what goes into these products empowers consumers to make informed choices.

The case of FD&C Red No. 3 highlights why vigilance is essential. Decades of scrutiny eventually led to its ban, proving that advocacy and accountability can drive meaningful change. While studies and regulations are complex, the principle remains simple: people deserve to know what they are putting into their bodies.

Advocating for ingredient safety is about more than just banning harmful substances. It’s about pushing for innovation, encouraging better practices, and ensuring that public health takes precedence over profit. The fight for transparency and safety is ongoing, but every step—like the FDA’s ban on Red No. 3—is a victory for a healthier and more informed world.

Want to further the efforts towards ingredient safety? We made the pom app for this purpose. To help people stay informed on what's in their everyday products. You can find the links to download pom here.