Ingredient

FD&C Red 3 And Carnauba Wax

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
FD&C Red 3 is used to give foods a red color, often found in …

What is FD&C Red 3 And Carnauba Wax?

FD&C Red 3 is a synthetic dye made from petroleum. Carnauba wax is a natural wax obtained from the leaves of the carnauba palm tree, native to Brazil. The wax is collected by drying the leaves and then beating off the wax.

Is FD&C Red 3 And Carnauba Wax vegan?

FD&C Red 3 And Carnauba Wax is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is FD&C Red 3 And Carnauba Wax a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is FD&C Red 3 And Carnauba Wax used for?

FD&C Red 3 is used to give foods a red color, often found in candies, baked goods, and frostings.

Is FD&C Red 3 And Carnauba Wax safe?

FD&C Red 3 is an FDA-approved color additive.

Why it's used

FD&C Red 3 is used to give foods a red color, often found in candies, baked goods, and frostings. Carnauba wax is used as a glazing agent to provide a shiny coating, prevent sticking, and add texture to foods like candies, chewing gum, and sprinkles.

Health notes

FD&C Red 3 is an FDA-approved color additive. However, the FDA revoked its approval for food use in January 2025, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply. This action was taken because Red 3 caused cancer in male rats, leading to its revocation under the Delaney Clause, though the FDA stated this finding is not relevant to human risk. California's Food Safety Act also bans Red 3 in food from 2027. Carnauba wax is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for specific uses, and JECFA has evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen.

Foods that contain FD&C Red 3 And Carnauba Wax

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Last updated: October 6, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.