What is red dye no. 3 in food and why the FDA banned it

In English known as Red Dye 3, the red dye no. 3 has already been the subject of several studies and targeted analyses. Today the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the American drug agency, declared that it will ban its use

It causes cancer, new tests show, which is why the US FDA has announced its intention to ban the use of the controversial red dye in food and medicines Red Dye is not. 3known in Europe as erythrosine E127.

An additive created from petroleum, E127 is a synthetic food coloring that gives foods and beverages a bright cherry red color, used primarily in some food products, such as candies, cakes and cupcakes, cookies, frozen desserts, frostings, and in some pharmaceutical drugs. ingest.

So far it has been found in approx 3,000 food products marketed in the United Statesaccording to the database ofEnvironmental Working Group (EWG): Candy, canned fruit, drinks, and even vegetarian bacon substitutes.

Furthermore, E127 had already been banned in California in 2023 and in general in the United States since 1990 in cosmetics and drugs to be applied directly to the skin, due to the risk of allergy and suspicions about its carcinogenic nature for humans.

What is E127 Erythrosine

Erythrosine is a red synthetic dye derived from coal tar, containing iodine, which can adversely affect thyroid health. In some countries its use is prohibited, as it has been linked to the development of thyroid tumors.

In humans, consuming erythrosine may pose risks, including hyperthyroidism, light sensitivity, asthma, hives, insomnia, and allergies. Despite this, its use as an additive is still permitted within the European Union.

The FDA stop

According to the provisions of the US authority, Red No. 3 in food and drugs will have until January 15, 2027 or January 18, 2028, respectively, to reformulate their products and foods imported into the United States must comply with the requirements Americans.