FD&C Red #3 & #40

FD&C Red #3 (Erythrosine) and FD&C Red #40 (Allura Red AC) are synthetic food color additives. They are petroleum-derived dyes created through chemical synthesis.

These dyes are used to impart a red color to a variety of processed foods. They are commonly found in candies, baked goods, beverages, and snack foods to enhance visual appeal.

The FDA revoked the approval of Red #3 for food use in January 2025, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply. This decision was based on the Delaney Clause, as it was found to cause cancer in male rats, though the FDA stated this finding is not relevant to human risk. California's Food Safety Act (AB 418) also bans Red #3 from 2027. Red #40 is currently permitted by the FDA, but in April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red #40. JECFA has evaluated both Red #3 and Red #40 and set acceptable daily intakes. Some studies have suggested a link between synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity in children, but the evidence is mixed and not consistently conclusive across all research.