Red 3
What is Red 3?
Red 3, also known as Erythrosine, is a synthetic color additive. It is a cherry-pink dye made through chemical synthesis. It is used to give foods a bright red or pink hue.
Is Red 3 vegan?
Red 3 is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Red 3 a major allergen?
Not a major allergen.
What is Red 3 used for?
Manufacturers add Red 3 to foods to provide a red or pink color.
Is Red 3 safe?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revoked the approval of Red 3 for use in food in January 2025, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add Red 3 to foods to provide a red or pink color. It is often found in candies, chewing gum, baked goods decorations, and some dessert items. Its purpose is purely aesthetic, making products more visually appealing.
Health notes
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revoked the approval of Red 3 for use in food in January 2025, with manufacturers having until January 2027 to comply. This revocation was based on the Delaney Clause, as studies showed it caused cancer in male rats, though the FDA stated this is not relevant to human risk. The California Food Safety Act (AB 418) also bans Red 3 in food from 2027. JECFA (the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) has evaluated Red 3 and set an acceptable daily intake.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.
Foods that contain Red 3
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