Green
What is Green?
FD&C Green No. 3, also known as Fast Green FCF, is a synthetic color additive. It is a petroleum-based dye used to give foods a green color.
Is Green vegan?
Green is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Green a major allergen?
FD&C Green No. 3 is not a major allergen and is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens.
What is Green used for?
Manufacturers add FD&C Green No. 3 to food products to achieve a green hue.
Is Green safe?
FD&C Green No. 3 is an FDA-approved color additive for food use.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add FD&C Green No. 3 to food products to achieve a green hue. It is often found in candies, beverages, baked goods, and some pet foods.
Health notes
FD&C Green No. 3 is an FDA-approved color additive for food use. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Green 3. JECFA has evaluated this additive and set an acceptable daily intake. EFSA has also evaluated it. Some studies have explored a possible link between synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity in some children, though the evidence is mixed.
Allergen info
FD&C Green No. 3 is not a major allergen and is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens.
Foods that contain Green
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