Red #3 Dye
What is Red #3 Dye?
Red #3 Dye, also known as Erythrosine, is a synthetic color additive. It is a cherry-pink or red dye that is manufactured from petroleum.
Is Red #3 Dye vegan?
Red #3 Dye is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Red #3 Dye a major allergen?
Not a major allergen.
What is Red #3 Dye used for?
Manufacturers add Red #3 Dye to give foods a red or pink color.
Is Red #3 Dye safe?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revoked the use of Red #3 for food in January 2025, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add Red #3 Dye to give foods a red or pink color. It has been commonly used in candies, baked goods, frostings, and other processed foods.
Health notes
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revoked the use of Red #3 for food in January 2025, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply. This revocation was due to the Delaney Clause, as it caused cancer in male rats, though the FDA stated this finding is not relevant to human risk. The California Food Safety Act (AB 418) also bans Red #3 in food starting in 2027. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated Red #3 and set an acceptable daily intake.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.
Foods that contain Red #3 Dye
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